Peoria: Authorities ordered residents and businesses within a one-mile radius of BioUrja Renewables in Peoria, Illinois, to evacuate Friday night after a bomb threat at the former ADM plant prompted a major emergency response.
The Peoria bomb threat was reported at the facility at 1 Edmund Street, near downtown Peoria. Police began searching the site and urged everyone inside the evacuation zone to leave immediately.
Peoria Mayor Rita Ali later confirmed that officials had identified an explosive device and described the threat as credible. Authorities continued examining the facility to determine whether additional devices were present.
The evacuation covered parts of downtown Peoria and neighboring East Peoria. Police closed numerous streets and urged residents, employees and visitors to stay away from the affected area until further notice.
Peoria police designated Manual Academy, at 811 South Griswold Street, as a shelter for people forced to leave their homes. East Peoria officials directed evacuees to EastSide Centre for assistance.
The response also affected major public venues and businesses. The Peoria Civic Center was evacuated, while the Peoria Chiefs canceled the opening night of their Holiday Lights at the Ballpark event at Dozer Park.
Chiefs general manager Jason Mott said approximately 90 visitors were at the ballpark when police instructed organizers to shut down the event. The team said tickets purchased for Friday would be honored on another scheduled night.
Authorities from multiple agencies assisted with evacuations and traffic control. Illinois State Police supported local officers, while emergency personnel worked to secure the facility and protect surrounding neighborhoods.
The incident disrupted transportation around downtown Peoria, with several Interstate 74 ramps temporarily closed as authorities managed traffic. Drivers were advised to avoid the area and follow instructions from law enforcement.
The Peoria bomb threat investigation remained active late Friday night. Officials said the one-mile evacuation area would remain in place while specialists continued searching the BioUrja facility.
