Federal authorities are investigating an extra-alarm fire Thursday night at a southwest suburban furniture warehouse, where damages could be as high as $50 million.
Fire crews were called about 5 p.m. to assist with the blaze at The RoomPlace warehouse at 2501 Internationale Parkway in Woodridge, according to the Lemont Fire Protection District.
About 50 employees escaped unharmed, and no firefighters were injured, officials said. The fire was brought under control by about 9:30 p.m. More than 100 firefighters from 30 departments were called in to help with the blaze, officials said.
The cause and origin of the fire is under investigation by several agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, spokesman Tom Ahern said.
Agents were deployed to the scene Friday afternoon because of the magnitude of the blaze, which destroyed about 700,000 square feet. Damage to the structure and the contents could be up to $50 million, according to preliminary estimates.
“As a family-owned company, our immediate focus is on our employees and customers,” a statement from The RoomPlace said.
“We are actively working to restore what was lost and communicating with all customers regarding any delays in deliveries that are a result of this incident. We appreciate your patience during this difficult time and will communicate more in the coming days,” the statement said.
