URBANA – The University of Illinois Police Department is investigating the death of one person following an overnight fire at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, 500 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana.
At 2:47 a.m. Wednesday, patrol officers responded to a working fire in the outdoor amphitheater area of the performing arts center. It was apparent upon officers’ arrival that the fire involved a person who had severe burns and was likely deceased. The flames were extinguished and the Urbana Fire Department responded. A gas can was found immediately next to the individual.
Investigators are awaiting the Champaign County Coroner’s identification of the individual. The incident remains an active death investigation, but it is believed that this is an isolated event and does not present any ongoing public safety issue.
University resources, including counseling, will be made available to any campus community member who may have been affected by the incident.
Investigators will release more information as they are able.