PARIS, Ill. (WCIA) — A sudden structural failure led to the swift evacuation of a building in Paris, Illinois, after its rear wall dramatically collapsed.

Paris Fire Chief Zack Janis shared details of the incident on Facebook Thursday evening, identifying the affected location as 126 North Main Street, currently housing World Finance.

The collapse was first noticed by someone heading into Dolan’s Fitness Center around 8 a.m., though the exact timing remains uncertain. Upon discovery, it was clear that approximately 40 to 50 feet of the building’s exterior wall had toppled outward.

“I immediately dispatched Engine 1 with caution tape, cones, and the department drone,” Janis explained. He also reached out to the Paris Street Department for support, where Supervisor Chris Redman promptly provided assistance. Additionally, Irv from Code Enforcement was called in to help manage the situation.

Ameren also responded and disconnected the power and gas utilities, which Janis said were located on the unstable wall.

No one was inside the building or any adjacent buildings, Janis added. When World Finance employees arrived, Janis told them they could not enter, as the building’s stability was unknown at that point.

“I requested contact information for the property owner and was able to speak with the District Manager for World Finance,” Janis said. “I explained that entry would not be permitted until the structure could be fully assessed and that we would need to develop a safe plan to remove essential items, if possible.”

Janis determined that, given the circumstances, the safest course of action was to remove those essential items. The District Manager arranged for a U-Haul truck to arrive around 2 p.m., and crews began entering the building through the front, which appeared to be stable.

“Crews then worked methodically, using dollies to move items from the rear toward the front, allowing for rapid removal in case of further collapse,” Janis said. “I contacted off-duty firefighters to assist, as it was imperative that the operation be completed quickly and safely…Additional dollies were provided by friends and community members, and many others reached out offering to help, something that truly speaks to the strength of our town.”

All contents were removed from the building in less than 1 hour and 40 minutes.

“Despite rain and wind, crews worked seamlessly, maximizing truck space and maintaining focus throughout the operation. Their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication were outstanding,” Janis said. “Not one complaint was heard. Everyone simply did their job. I am extremely proud of this department and all my guys. Thank you to everyone who offered assistance.”

Structural evaluations of the property are ongoing. Janis advised that people avoid the area and stay behind the barricades and tape, which are in place for the public’s protection.

Speaking with WCIA on Friday, Janis added that more of the wall collapsed overnight.