EVANSTON, ILLINOIS - On Saturday, July 11, 2015, at approximately 11:58 p.m., Evanston fire companies responded to 1815 Ridge Avenue following the report of the fence on fire. Arriving companies found a power line arching on a fence due to the partial collapse of the northeast section of the building (National School Towel Service), which was vacant.

Fire companies secured the surrounding area and directed that  water, gas, and electricity be tuned off. The Fire Department worked with other City of Evanston departments to further address safety concerns related to this incident, including the Building Division (structural engineer), Public Works, and Police.

All lanes of Ridge Avenue were shut down. At this time, the northbound lanes of Ridge Avenue from Church Street to Emerson Street are still closed. Motorists are being asked to avoid the area or use the detours provided. The City is working diligently to get the roadway opened and estimate that the northbound lanes will open by mid-day on Monday, July 13.