Local firefighters have been busy over the last several hours

by Steve Dunford

At 5:42 p.m. Benton and West City firefighters responded to the KOA campground on DuQuoin St. in Benton for a camper fire.  With two other structures in danger.  Amount of loss is undetermined.

Zeigler emergency officials responding to a previous incident. (Zeigler fire department photo)

Just after midnight, Zeigler firefighters responded to a chemical situation on Coxspur street, on the north side of the city limits.  There were some evacuations that took place.  Residents were allowed to return to their homes around 2:00 a.m.  Coxspur Street was reopened around 3:00 a.m.

At 3:10 a.m. Buckner and West City firefighters responded to a single vehicle accident on Route 14 at the Big Muddy Bridge.  There was a possible extrication.   Updates on the accident will be shared as information becomes available.

UPDATE 4:10 p.m.  I just spoke with Buckner Fire Chief David Dolderer, and he said the accident occurred just west of Rend City Road.  There was a young man injured and he is in critical but stable condition.  Coello Fire Department was also called for mutual aid.