Illinois quick hits: Carrier Mills sinkhole prompts evacuations; boating precautions urged

Carrier Mills sinkhole prompts evacuations

A sinkhole is forcing residents out of their homes in Carrier Mills. According to the Carrier Mills Police Department, the hole formed due to a subsiding mine.

A nearby apartment building sustained significant damage. Evacuations were ordered in the area. Police said they will have officers stationed in the area to keep residents from going near the site.

Boating precautions urged

The Illinois Liquor Control Commission urges boat operators and passengers to be responsible, practice moderation and understand the threats of drinking and boating.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reported 70 boating accidents and 72 people arrested for boating under the influence in Illinois in 2023. In Illinois, it is illegal to operate a boat with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 or higher, or while under the influence of drugs.

'King of Cash' wins lottery

A scratch-off ticket has made an Illinois Lottery player a millionaire.

The winner, who requested to stay anonymous, bought a $30 “Cash is King” scratch-off ticket in Bellwood and won $3 million. The man, who only identified himself as King of Cash, said he plans to pay off his mortgage and buy cars for his wife and son.

Over 37 million Illinois Lottery instant tickets have been sold so far this year, totaling over $972 million in prizes.