Investigators are trying to pinpoint what sparked the fire that damaged four buildings in downtown Vandalia near Illinois’ former Capitol.
Officials say nobody was hurt in the blaze that broke out early on Feb. 23.
The fire destroyed several businesses, including a carpet store, a tax service, an insurance agency and a tavern. Two other businesses sustained water and smoke damage.
Vandalia Fire Chief Merle Adermann says the flames were fueled by adhesives and solvents in the carpet store, alcohol in the tavern and papers in the tax service.
Information from: Herald & Review, http://www.herald-review.com
Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
20,000 AI Users at Travelers Prep for Innovation 2.0; Claims Call Centers Cut 
Elon Musk Alone Can’t Explain Tesla’s Owner Exodus 
Hackers Hit Sensitive Targets in 37 Nations in Spying Plot 
Berkshire Utility Presses Wildfire Appeal With Billions at Stake 
Want to stay up to date?
Get the latest insurance news
sent straight to your inbox.