Yesterday, October 9, 2024, emergency crews tackled a substantial brush fire along Interstate 80, affecting areas from mile marker 64 to 65 eastbound, and spreading into a nearby cornfield. Dry conditions quickly escalated the fire’s reach, prompting authorities to shut down all eastbound traffic to ensure safety and clear the way for emergency operations. Notably, quick-thinking from a local farmer, who assisted with a plow, played a crucial role in controlling the blaze. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of various agencies and individuals, the situation was managed efficiently, demonstrating the importance of community and preparedness in crises. In a Facebook post, the Ladd Fire Department thanked the numerous agencies that assisted with the fire. BueComm and ValComm provided dispatch for the fire. Spring Valley, Princeton, Cherry, Peru, LaSalle, Bureau, Oglesby, Cedar Point, Depue, Granville, Standard, Utica, Malden, and 10/33 Ambulance Fire Departments provided Mutual Aid. The Bureau County Sheriff, Illinois State Police, and IDOT assisted with traffic control.
