Large Fire In New Lenox Commercial Building Out After Burning For Hours: New Lenox FD

NEW LENOX, IL — A large fire in a commercial building in New Lenox is out after crews battled it for several hours, according to New Lenox Fire Chief Adam Riegel.

The fire was in the block of 200 Otto Drive, with heavy smoke showing for miles. New Lenox Fire Protection District received a fire alarm at 8:45 a.m. Friday. While en route, 911 calls reported smoke in the area, Riegel said.

Crews arriving at the scene found a fire inside the building, with all occupants safely evacuated before crews' arrival. The call was upgraded to a still, then again upgraded to a box alarm.

As of just after 11 a.m., the fire was out, with crews still on scene putting out any hotspots. Hazmat crews were called to the scene to assist with cleanup.

Units from New Lenox, East Joliet, Mokena, Homer Township, Manhattan, Wilmington, Lockport, Elwood, Orland and more responded to the scene, according to Tri-State Fire Alerts.

Cedar Road southbound is closed at Illinois Highway, and northbound is closed at Ford Drive, according to New Lenox police.

The extent of the damage was not yet known, Riegel said, as the fire burned for some time inside while crews attempted to reach it defensively.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

This story is developing.