A massive cloud of thick, black smoke was visible for many Sterling, Illinois residents when fire burned in a scrap pile at Cimco Recycling.
The fire was reported just after 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at the facility at 13509 Galt Road. The fire was confined to a 100-by-100 feet pile of scrap material that was about 35 feet tall, according to a statement from the Sterling Fire Department.
Eight fire departments sent firefighters and resources to the fire scene. Heavy equipment was used to move the scrap pile so firefighters could get to the source of the fire.
Firefighters remained at the scene for nearly six hours, and Cimco employees continued to monitor the site throughout the night.
A nearby building and equipment were spared. No injuries were reported.