A roaring scrapyard fire lit up Chicago's West Side on Monday afternoon, sending a thick plume of black smoke across the Eisenhower Expressway and pulling dozens of firefighters into a prolonged battle. Centered in the 5600 block of West Fillmore Street, the blaze was visible for miles and led to closures on nearby Central Avenue as crews worked to knock down hot spots. Emergency officials said fire units remained on scene into the evening as the situation continued to develop.
According to ABC7 Chicago, Chicago Fire Department units were dispatched just after 4 p.m., with Chopper 7 capturing heavy smoke rising from Central Metal Recycling on West Fillmore. The station reported it was not immediately clear whether anyone had been injured.
NBC Chicago described the scene as a scrapyard blaze, noting that thick smoke blew across Central Avenue and forced the department to close the roadway while crews fought flames for hours. Reporters said firefighters attacked the fire from multiple angles to keep it from spreading to neighboring properties.
Where the fire burned
The lot involved is listed as Central Metal Recycling at 5618 W. Fillmore St., located on Central Avenue between I‑290 and Roosevelt, according to the company's website. Aerial footage and station reporting showed piles of material in the yard that appeared to fuel the flames as the fire burned.
Response and safety
Officials have not released a cause, and investigators were expected to check for hot spots and potential environmental hazards, ABC7 Chicago reported. Crews focused on defensive operations to stop flames from jumping nearby roadways or structures, while engine companies cycled in and out to refill hose lines and maintain water flow.
Smoke and health concerns
Large fires that kick up heavy smoke can pose health risks, especially for people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, pregnant people, and children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges residents to stay indoors when smoke is present, keep tabs on local air-quality updates, and use high-efficiency filters or portable air cleaners if available; see the CDC for detailed guidance.
This is a developing story, and authorities and local outlets were continuing to update details as crews worked to bring the fire under control. Expect traffic and visibility impacts in the area through the evening.
