Thompson Appliance in Woodstock has begun further collapsing days after authorities say the roof of the store collapsed, leaving the building at “imminent risk” of a full collapse.
The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District was notified by the City of Woodstock Building Department around 12 p.m. Wednesday of significant structural compromise at Thompson Appliance, 318 Clay Street.
The building department reported that a roof collapse occurred, which had been discovered by the building owner, according to Woodstock Fire/Rescue District Public Information Officer Alex Vucha.
The business was not open when the collapse occurred and a further assessment indicated an imminent collapse of the entire building, Vucha said.
Firefighters arrived and confirmed the building department’s assessment while establishing a secure perimeter around the property.
Clay Street between Church Street and Hutchins Street remains shut down to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic for an undetermined amount of time.
Representatives from Nicor and ComEd were on the scene securing utilities as a precaution, Vucha said. No injuries were reported.
The Woodstock Police Department assisted with traffic control and scene security.
“Further assessments will determine when access to the area can resume. Residents and visitors are asked to avoid the area and follow posted closures,” Vucha said.
City officials say access remains open to the Metra station parking lot across the street from the business.
The building has been deemed uninhabitable and no one is allowed to enter the business.
Thompson Appliance is a family business created almost 100 years ago that opened its first store in Woodstock in 1929, according to its website. It features a 6,200-square-foot showroom with a variety of appliances for sale.
The building was seen further degraded on Sunday, with a portion of the upper facade, including the business sign, coming down. The fire district asked people to continue avoiding the area.
The owner of Thompson Appliance, Bob Thompson, said he was working with a structural engineer.
His daughter, Richelle Lanae Thompson, said her father may have to make the “tough decision” to close down the business until the issue is resolved.
“Thank you to all the families who have supported our family over the countless years of operation!” she said.