The old Firestone building on the west side of Illinois Route 1 in Hoopeston is now a pile of rubble after a Tuesday, November 15th fire. Fire Chief Joel Bird has been quoted as stating the building was “totally involved” in massive flames and smoke upon firefighters’ arrival, and that the building needed to be completely torn down because of hot spots reigniting.
Chief Bird told Neuhoff Media that the fire was fought from about 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM, and that five other fire departments were called in to assist. The building was reportedly being rented at the time of the fire, and the investigation continues. Chief Bird estimated that it has been about 20 years since Firestone occupied the building.
