Electrical problem with cooler at fault for University Liquors fire

Posted on May 21, 2018
University Liquors
Normal firefighters believe an electrical problem with a cooler’s refrigeration system caused last week’s blaze at University Liquors at 706 W. Beaufort St. Damage is estimated at more than $1 million. (Facebook/Normal Fire Department)

 

By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – The fire that heavily damaged University Liquors in Normal last week started because of an electrical problem in a cooler’s refrigeration system.

The Normal Fire Department also reported the losses will exceed $1 million due to damage to the building and its contents at 706 W. Beaufort St., near the Illinois State University campus.

The fire department says University Liquors’ owners are working with a restoration company to clean up the site and determine the next steps toward rebuilding or making repairs.

A fire department news release issued late Monday afternoon said the May 14 fire caused heavy smoke and heat damage throughout the building. The roof sustained extensive fire damage.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]

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