The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Zone 3 was requested by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to investigate an unknown explosion which occurred at the old IL Rt. 178 bridge (near Starved Rock State Park) in LaSalle County, IL.

The investigation is being led by the ISP DCI Zone 3 with assistance from IDNR, ISP District 17, ISP Crime Scene Services (CCS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kane County Bomb Squad, LaSalle County Coroner, Utica Fire Department and Utica Police Department. There are three confirmed fatalities with identification pending the investigation.

The events surrounding the explosion remain under investigation. There is no further information being released at this time. This is an isolated incident and there is no concern for public safety at this time. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the ISP DCI Zone 3 at (815) 726-6377.

94.1 WGFA