CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Fire crews were called to Memorial Stadium in Champaign Tuesday night.
An Illini Alert went out at 8:10 p.m. that said a fire was located at 1402 S. First Street.
Illini-Alert Emergency. Fire at 1402 S First St, Champaign. Avoid area. If in or near this location, leave immediately. More information to come.
— Illini-Alert (@IlliniAlert) October 4, 2023
An updated Illini Alert was sent out at 8:28 p.m. advising that the fire was put out.
Illini-Alert. The fire at 1402 S First St, Champaign has been put out but fire crews remain on scene working. Please continue to avoid the area.
— Illini-Alert (@IlliniAlert) October 4, 2023
A representative from Illini Athletics said the fire occurred in the southwest corner underneath the horseshoe, away from spectator areas.
No injuries have been reported.
The Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) will evaluate the facility to determine whether it will be able to host Nebraska this Friday. Early indications are positive.
The university released a statement saying:
"A fire occurred Tuesday night at Memorial Stadium. It was located in the southwest corner underneath the horseshoe, away from spectator areas.
The fire was quickly contained and has been extinguished, thanks to the efforts of our local fire departments. There were no injuries reported.
The Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) thanks the many first responders for their quick action.
The Illinois football team hosts Nebraska at Memorial Stadium on Friday at 7 p.m. CT. DIA will continue to evaluate the facility over the course of the next day, but early indications are positive that the stadium will be prepared to host the game, as scheduled and without interruption of seating or services, for the game on Friday."
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