Chicago Heights, IL – Fire crews from multiple departments rushed to the scene Saturday morning after more than 100 vehicles caught fire at a Chicago Heights junkyard.
According to the Chicago Heights Fire Department, the fire broke out around 10 a.m. at Smart Tow on 650 E. Joe Orr Road. Thick black smoke quickly filled the sky, visible for miles across Cook County and nearby communities.
Firefighters confirmed that over 100 cars were burning in the yard, prompting a box alarm response. Departments including Crete Township and Park Forest assisted in the effort, using tanker trucks to shuttle water to the scene. Crews set up aerial ladders to battle flames from above while ground teams worked to keep the fire from spreading further.
As of Saturday afternoon, there were no immediate reports of injuries. Officials have not yet released details on the cause of the fire. Residents were urged to avoid the area due to heavy emergency response activity and reduced visibility from smoke.
The incident marks one of the largest junkyard fires in the region this year, with damage estimates expected to be significant.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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