By By: The Associated Press/WSIU Staff
DuQuoin, IL – A massive fire in Pinckneyville claimed the life of a 22-year-old firefighter, and destroyed a historic opera house.
Corey Shaw was the son of Du Quoin Fire Chief Bob Shaw. He had started as a volunteer firefighter in Du Quoin last year.
Witnesses say Corey Shaw was near a wall when it collapsed. He was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital, where he later died.
Du Quoin City Commissioner Rex Duncan says all public flags will be flown at half staff.
Services for Shaw have been set. Visitation is tomorrow night from 4-8pm at Du Quoin Middle School, with a service and burial on Wednesday.
