Bomb threat triggers mandatory evacuation order within one mile radius in and near Peoria, Illinois

Police have issued a mandatory evacuation order for much of Peoria and neighboring East Peoria in central Illinois as they investigate a bomb threat at an ethanol and alcohol production plant.

Anyone living or working within a mile of the BioUrja Renewables plant in Peoria has been ordered to evacuate their homes and businesses until further notice.

“The evacuation recommendation is being issued out of an abundance of caution while officers and emergency personnel investigate the threat,” Peoria police said in a Facebook post. “Officers are currently on scene conducting a thorough investigation and search of the facility to determine the credibility of the threat and ensure public safety.”

A suspicious package in or near the BioUrja plant triggered the evacuation order, according to CBS affiliate WMBD-TV.

Anyone who lives or works in the evacuation zone can go to Manual Academy, 811 S. Griswold St. in Peoria, to seek shelter.

The evacuation order covers parts of Peoria and neighboring East Peoria.

“There was a credible threat and the city takes it seriously,” East Peoria Mayor John Kahl said, according to CBS affiliate WMBD-TV.

“This should be treated as a credible threat. We are asking everyone in the one-mile area to evacuate,” Peoria Mayor Rita Ali said, according to WBMD.