Apparent explosion at Carus Chemical

LASALLE – An apparent explosion this morning at Carus Chemical in LaSalle has sent clouds of billowing smoke into the air above the Illinois Valley.  The blaze, now on it’s fourth alarm, is being battled by a number of area fire departments in the 1500 block of 8th Street.  Authorities say if you can smell smoke or in the vicinity of the factory you should remain indoors and await further instruction.