Orland Park, IL – A busy Thanksgiving Eve shopping rush was disrupted Wednesday when the Mariano’s grocery store in Orland Park was evacuated and temporarily closed due to an equipment malfunction, according to the Orland Park Police Department.
Police and fire crews responded to the store during one of the heaviest grocery shopping days of the year as residents prepared for Thanksgiving gatherings. Officials say an unspecified equipment issue inside the building prompted staff to call emergency responders. Out of “an abundance of caution,” the store was cleared of customers and employees while crews investigated.
Authorities emphasized that there is no danger to the public and that the situation is being handled safely. However, they did not provide details about the exact nature of the malfunction, leaving the cause of the incident unclear as of Wednesday night.
The unexpected closure created added complications for holiday shoppers, many of whom were attempting to pick up last-minute ingredients ahead of Thanksgiving Day. Police asked the public to avoid the area to allow room for emergency vehicles and to ensure safety during the response.
According to officials, the store is expected to reopen Thursday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., pending final clearance once crews resolve the issue.
The Orland Park Police Department said it will provide updates as more information becomes available and thanked residents for their patience during the Thanksgiving Eve disruption.
