Marseilles, IL – Police in Marseilles are addressing concerns circulating online after reports claimed individuals were being locked inside a restroom at a local Shell gas station.
According to the Marseilles Police Department, officers investigated the situation earlier today after social media posts raised alarm about customers allegedly being trapped. Authorities said the restrooms at the station are restricted to paying customers and operate using an electromagnetic locking system controlled by staff.
Police stated that employees remotely unlock the restroom doors to allow entry. Once inside, customers can exit freely by pressing a wall-mounted button that disables the lock. Officers tested the system in both restrooms and confirmed the exit function worked as intended.
Concerns that the locking mechanism was limited to the women’s restroom were also addressed. Police said identical systems are installed in both the men’s and women’s facilities, and no evidence was found to support claims of unequal access or safety risks.
Large instructional signs are posted inside each restroom, guiding customers on how to exit using the button, according to authorities. Police emphasized that the system is designed for controlled access rather than confinement.
Officials are urging residents to report suspicious or concerning activity directly to law enforcement rather than relying solely on social media. The department noted that while online platforms can help spread awareness, they are not monitored in real time for emergency response.
Residents are encouraged to contact dispatch at (815) 795-2131 for non-emergency concerns or dial 9-1-1 in urgent situations.
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