Part of Eastport Plaza Evacuated Briefly

EAST PEORIA- East Peoria Fire Department reported the south end of the Eastport Plaza was evacuated briefly during noon hour Monday during a fire alarm. Firemen say office workers from Erie Insurance group reported black smoke coming from the vents. Crews were sent to the second floor to investigate and found moderate smoke but couldn't locate the source. The furnace unit was smoldering. Areas above and adjacent to the location of the fire were checked and ventilation was initiated.Official cause and dollar loss still being investigated, according to a release by the East Peoria fire department.