A bomb threat at the BioUrja Renewables plant in Peoria, Illinois, prompted authorities to evacuate a large section of the city and neighboring East Peoria on Friday evening. Police ordered residents and workers within a one-mile radius of the industrial facility to leave immediately while emergency crews investigated the reported threat. The situation also triggered road closures, disrupted local events and prompted Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to direct state police to assist.
The incident occurred at the former Archer Daniels Midland ethanol plant near downtown Peoria. Officials described the situation as serious, with both Peoria and East Peoria authorities urging residents to follow evacuation instructions. Investigators were searching the facility to determine the nature of the threat, while temporary shelters were opened for displaced residents.
What Happened During the Peoria Bomb Threat?
The Peoria Police Department began investigating a reported bomb threat at BioUrja Renewables, located at 1 Edmund Street near Southwest Washington Street.
Authorities issued an emergency evacuation warning on November 13, instructing everyone living or working within one mile of the facility to leave their homes and businesses.
The evacuation area extended across portions of downtown Peoria and into East Peoria, affecting neighborhoods and businesses on both sides of the Illinois River.
Local reporting indicated that a suspicious package at or near the facility prompted the emergency response. Police began searching the plant while establishing a security perimeter around the surrounding area.
Officials initially provided limited details about the suspected device or how the threat was reported.
Which Areas of Peoria Were Evacuated?
The evacuation zone covered a one-mile radius around the BioUrja Renewables facility, including sections of downtown Peoria and neighboring East Peoria.
Police closed numerous streets within the restricted area and asked motorists to avoid traveling toward the plant.
Illinois State Police also restricted access to several Interstate 74 ramps leading into Peoria as officers worked to control traffic.
East Peoria officials released an evacuation map identifying affected locations and instructed people within the highlighted area to leave immediately.
Authorities emphasized that residents should not return until officials determined that the area was safe.
Where Were Emergency Shelters Opened?
Emergency shelters were established to accommodate residents who needed somewhere to stay during the evacuation.
In Peoria, officials directed evacuees to Manual Academy, located at 811 South Griswold Street.
For residents affected in East Peoria, the EastSide Centre was designated as an emergency shelter.
Local authorities encouraged people to follow police instructions rather than attempt to enter restricted neighborhoods.
The evacuation disrupted normal evening activities, with residents, employees and visitors forced to change their plans as the investigation continued.
How Did the Bomb Threat Affect Businesses and Events?
The emergency caused significant disruptions across downtown Peoria.
The Peoria Civic Center canceled its scheduled Friday evening performance and evacuated the facility as a precaution.
The Peoria Chiefs also canceled the opening night of Holiday Lights at the Ballpark at Dozer Park. Organizers indicated that tickets purchased for the canceled event could be used on another scheduled date.
Industrial and healthcare employers also responded to the emergency.
Caterpillar instructed employees not to report for their Friday third shift because of the safety situation.
Meanwhile, OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center said it was taking appropriate precautions and coordinating with authorities to protect patients, visitors and employees.
What Did Peoria Officials Say About the Threat?
Peoria Mayor Rita Ali urged residents to treat the situation seriously and comply with evacuation instructions.
East Peoria Mayor John Kahl also described the threat as credible and emphasized that the city was taking necessary precautions.
Governor JB Pritzker confirmed that he was monitoring the incident and had directed Illinois State Police to coordinate with local law enforcement.
State troopers assisted with traffic restrictions and security operations while Peoria officers investigated the facility.
Federal lawmakers representing the region, including Darin LaHood and Eric Sorensen, also acknowledged the emergency and encouraged residents to follow official safety guidance.
Has the Peoria Bomb Threat Been Resolved?
In the initial reports, authorities had not announced whether an explosive device had been found or identified anyone responsible for the threat.
Police were continuing their investigation and searching the BioUrja Renewables facility to determine whether the reported danger could be confirmed.
There were no confirmed reports of injuries in the early coverage, and officials had not established a timetable for reopening the restricted area.
The Peoria bomb threat prompted a major emergency response because of the industrial facility’s location near populated neighborhoods, businesses and transportation routes.
Residents were advised to rely on official police and city announcements for confirmation of when evacuation restrictions would be lifted.