UPDATE: ROCHELLE (WIFR) -- We've learned hundreds of the pigs didn't make it. The fire broke out around 5:30 this morning at 1957 South Mulford Road, which is south of Route 64 and east of I-39. There were about 2,000 pigs and we're told more than 600 were killed.
Preliminary reports show the fire sparked from a heating system malfunction. Apparently, the owner turned on the heat yesterday for the pigs.
Some of the animals will be housed with a nearby farmer and others will go to Iowa. One of the barns is a complete loss and about half of the other barn was destroyed. This was a farm for feeding and raising pigs.
There are around 35 firefighters from 9 different counties on scene.
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ROCHELLE (WIFR) -- A pig barn caught fire this morning around 6 a.m. on the 1900 block of South Mulford Road. Several emergency vehicles are still on the scene handling the incident.
There are no reports of any human injuries however several pigs have died. The cause of the fire is not yet known.
23 News is there and we will keep you updated.
