Local News
Major Structural Fire at AutoZone in Hollywood
A significant fire has broken out at the AutoZone store located in the mini-mall at the intersection of Fountain Avenue and Highland Avenue in Hollywood.
Firefighters are actively working to extinguish the flames, which have already caused a roof collapse.
The fire involves car batteries and other hazardous materials, adding to the intensity of the situation.
The blaze has affected nearby businesses, including popular establishments Fat Sal’s and Sushi Ajito, which have sustained damage.
Additionally, a billboard near the scene has been compromised and is being closely monitored for potential collapse, increasing safety concerns in the area.
Local authorities and emergency responders have cordoned off the affected zone and are urging the public to avoid the area. Highland Avenue is completely closed between DeLongpre and Lexington Avenues, while Fountain Avenue is also shut down.
Drivers are advised to take alternate routes to ensure safety and minimize travel disruptions.
At this time, the cause of the fire remains unknown, and there is no information about any injuries. Updates will be provided as more details emerge.
HARTFORD, IL — Newly released video footage reveals the harrowing moments of an ARCH Air Medical helicopter crash that occurred during a nighttime training exercise in Hartford, Illinois.
The incident took place around 9:00 p.m. on Thursday in a vacant lot near North Delmar Avenue, directly across from the Hartford Fire Department.
The video shows the helicopter attempting to lift off when one of its rotor blades struck a tree limb approximately 50 feet above ground.
The impact caused the aircraft to lose control, flip, and crash to the ground, where it immediately caught fire.
A thick plume of smoke and the glow of flames could be seen from blocks away.
In the aftermath of the crash, one of the individuals on board — identified in the video by a blue uniform — can be seen walking away from the burning wreckage.
Another survivor is shown being carried on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance.
Emergency personnel from the Hartford, South Roxana, and Wood River Fire Departments quickly responded to the scene.
The crash’s proximity to the fire station allowed first responders to act swiftly, containing the fire and rescuing the occupants.
Officials confirmed that all three people aboard the helicopter survived and were transported to area hospitals.
Two were taken by ground ambulance, while a third was airlifted by another ARCH Air Medical helicopter. Their medical conditions have not yet been released.
The crash resulted in a strong odor of aviation fuel that permeated the downtown Hartford area throughout the evening.
Authorities cordoned off the site while crews worked to stabilize the scene and mitigate any fire hazards.
The helicopter was participating in a routine training mission when the incident occurred.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and are conducting a full investigation into the cause of the crash.
ARCH Air Medical has not yet released an official statement.
More details will be provided as the investigation continues and additional information becomes available.