A chemical plant fire prompted local officials to shut down a major highway due its close proximity with the fire.
The Associated Press reported that a fire broke out at the Chemtura Corporation plant – previously utilized by Lanza inc. – in Mapleton, Ill., just 10 miles south of Peoria. While the details concerning the initial cause of the fire – or the size or scope of its damage – have not been reported on thus far. There was no mention of a fire alarm system or sprinkler system aiding to suppressing the fire.
According to the Chemtura website, they are a "global specialty chemicals company listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Euronext Paris, with leading positions in diversified markets… Major industries served include transportation, energy & electronics, and agriculture."
According to Sandy Klatt, the communications supervisor of Peoria County, there have been no reported injuries. She also noted that Mapleton – a small town of 270 residents – had not been issued to evacuate. The state Highway 24, on the other hand, was shut down. Firefighters, however, we quickly able to contain the fire and the highway was reopened through Mapleton shortly there after.
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