A huge, threatening fire in Gilman (Wednesday) destroyed one building, damaged a couple more and had emergency responders on edge for a while. No injuries resulted. But now the Iroquois County town is forced to clean-up.

Strong winds made fighting the flames difficult. Then, came threatening weather.

This was at the intersection of North Central and 2nd Street in Gilman. The fire broke out after 2 pm. And soon, several area fire departments were responding.
The building, an old lumberyard, was made of steel. Fire crews had a tough time gaining access.

Smoke, thick black smoke billowed. It could be seen for miles.

For almost three hours, crews were dousing the flames that destroyed the old lumberyard building. A family lived inside got out safely. People were evacuated from businesses and the Gilman Elementary School sent students to the high school.

The popular Garage – a community center, next door was damaged.

The cause was not immediately determined.

94.1 WGFA