Photo provided by Illinois State University
NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State University’s off-campus farm in Lexington suffered substantial damages overnight.
The fire reportedly broke out around 1 a.m. with fire departments from several surrounding counties being called in to help suppress the flames. At this time the fire has been subdued, however the affected portion of the barn which was ablaze will continue to smolder for quite some time despite the frigid temperatures.
It is estimated at this time that 60 percent of the barn has been destroyed. The farm provides ISU agricultural students with hands-on experience working in the agricultural field.
The affected portion of the barn which caught fire was filled with straw, whereas the unaffected half of the barn which remains standing was filled with approximately 150 cattle. No injuries to any farm attendants or cattle have been reported at this time.
At this time the cause behind what started the fire is unknown. An investigation will be held by local authorities into what started the fire.
Updated as of 12:30 p.m.