In Illinois, a local business has criticized a Democratic mayor following a fire incident that drew attention earlier this week. The situation has raised questions as authorities investigate.
Deputy Fire Chief John Calhoun remarked, “The fire is questionable,” during an interview.
The fire erupted around 6 a.m. on Tuesday, escalating to a three-alarm response. Thankfully, there were no injuries, but the building was entirely destroyed.
A smaller fire had also been reported at the same site just a week prior.
Previously, the Illinois State Police Commissioner had targeted the location in a stolen vehicle investigation. Authorities, together with owner Lawrence Gardner, reported that about 10 of the 50 vehicles at the site were under scrutiny for automated theft.
Neither the Illinois Secretary of State nor the Dolton Fire Department provided a comment when contacted.
Gardner has openly criticized Mayor Tiffany Henyard in the past, claiming she retaliated against him for not backing her.
Henyard, who has drawn criticism as “the worst mayor in America,” has faced numerous allegations over the years. Having recently lost her reelection bid in February, she failed to attend several village board meetings thereafter.
Moreover, in 2024, the FBI issued a subpoena at Daltons’ Village Hall due to ongoing corruption claims, although no charges were brought against Henyard.
She is also under fire for allegations of sexual assault and scrutiny regarding a cancer charity. Following a loss to Mayor Jason House, federal investigators sought records related to a land development project connected to Henyard’s boyfriend.
Neither House nor Henyard responded to requests for comments.
