A suspicious device discovered at the BioUrja Renewables ethanol plant in Peoria, Illinois, was declared a credible bomb threat and rendered safe late Friday evening, prompting a one-mile evacuation zone that was lifted Saturday after authorities completed a thorough search of the facility.
Peoria Police Chief Brad Dixon confirmed the device was neutralized at 9:12 p.m. local time on Friday, but emphasized that the entire plant remained under investigation as of early Saturday. The FBI joined the probe over the weekend, with Special Agent Ryan Pressley stating the agency was working to identify those responsible.
Evacuations lifted after safety sweep
Authorities allowed residents to return home Saturday after no additional explosives or threats were found during an exhaustive search of the BioUrja facility, which produces ethanol and handles highly combustible chemicals. The one-mile evacuation zone was rescinded, roads were reopened, and shelters for displaced residents were closed.
Peoria Mayor Rita Ali noted the facility’s operations raised concerns due to the presence of ethanol and other flammable materials, though she did not specify further risks. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated state agencies were assisting evacuees, while Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.) met with affected residents at a designated shelter.
Investigation ongoing; no arrests made
As of Saturday afternoon, no arrests had been reported, and authorities declined to disclose details about the device’s composition or potential motives. FBI Special Agent Pressley stated the investigation was in its early stages, with authorities working with local, state, and federal partners to determine responsibility.
Impact on local events and infrastructure
The bomb threat disrupted several activities, including the cancellation of a concert by country singer Jon Pardi at the Peoria Civic Center. Bridges over the Illinois River were temporarily shut down, and the river itself was restricted as a precaution. Manual Academy served as an emergency shelter for evacuees.
Ethanol plant’s role in the investigation
The BioUrja Renewables plant, acquired in 2021, processes ethanol—a flammable fuel derived from corn that is commonly blended into gasoline. Authorities have not indicated whether the plant’s operations were directly linked to the bomb threat. The facility is located along the Illinois River in southern Peoria, approximately 1.5 miles from downtown.
Safety assurances amid public concern
Officials repeatedly urged residents to treat the threat as credible, with Mayor Ali stating, “This is a real crisis situation right now.” Peoria Police Department advised the public to avoid the area until further notice, emphasizing that the search of the facility was not yet complete at the time of the initial evacuation order.
Next steps in the investigation
Authorities have not provided a timeline for reopening the plant or concluding the investigation. The FBI, Peoria Police Department, and Illinois State Police continue to collaborate on the case, with no further updates issued as of Saturday evening.