United States-Fire at pig farm.

UNITED STATES-FIRE AT PIG FARM.

large fire destroyed at least one building Wednesday night at a Schuyler County hog farm.

Firefighters from the Littleton Fire Department were called to the Timberline hog farm, between Industry and Rushville, just after 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. A passer-by called for help after spotting smoke coming from one of the buildings at the hog farm.

Firefighters from the Vermont , Adair, Rushville, Macomb , Emmet Chalmers and Industry departments were called in for mutual aid for the blaze, which took over at least two buildings.

Witnesses said the thick smoke coming from the buildings was visible from Blandinsville, Adair and Macomb .

Numerous fire trucks and tankers were at the scene late Wednesday, including those hauling water to the firefighting effort.

Because of a concern about chemicals kept in or near the buildings, no one but fire crews were allowed near the confinements.

Managers of the confinements, who were also kept back, said the buildings are owned by Carthage Veterinary Service.

Police did not know how many animals were involved in the fire, but one manager estimated at least $1 million in animals were held at the site.

Crews were shutting off power to the remaining buildings Wednesday night to assist with the firefighting effort.

Late Wednesday a bulldozer was also being brought to the fire scene to help push in the walls of the burning buildings. No damage estimate was available Wednesday.

pjstar.com