ALERT! Chicago Highrise on Fire, page 1

A 45 story tower in downtown Chicago is on fire. The building was reportedly built before fire sprinklers were required. People are reported in the building.

www.nbc5.com
Firefighters are responding to reports of a high-rise fire at 135 South Lasalle St. at this hour.

The building is the LaSalle National Bank Building, which is a 45-story building built in 1934 -- before sprinklers were required on every floor in high-rises.

There are reports of people inside the building. Witnesses have said people are waving their hands out windows, and flames could be seen coming out of at least five windows.

The Chicago 911 center told NBC5 is has reports of people on the 26th, 27th, 30th and 34th floors.

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This could be a serious situation if the building lacks fire sprinklers or other modern safety devices and escape routes.

[edit on 6-12-2004 by Phoenix]