Downtown Ishpeming was cordoned off Wednesday morning after the collapse of the VFW building, prompting concerns over a gas leak. (Courtesy photo)

ISHPEMING — Early on Wednesday morning, the city of Ishpeming released a statement that the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4573 building on Bank Street collapsed, prompting an evacuation of the downtown area.

“The city of Ishpeming is responding to the collapse of the downtown VFW hall,” reads the statement. “Emergency crews are on the scene and an active safety perimeter has been established. Out of an abundance of caution, nearby residents have been evacuated and the downtown area is currently closed to all pedestrian and vehicle traffic. (Area residents) are urged to stay away from the downtown district until further notice to allow emergency responders and utility crews to work safely.”

The city urged residents to avoid downtown until the closure was lifted, follow all posted barricades and safety instructions and monitor official city communication channels for updates.

“Utility providers are actively working to shut off natural gas service in the affected area to prevent additional hazards,” reads the city’s 7:30 a.m. statement. “Fire, police and public works personnel remain on scene. At this time, the safety of residents and first responders remains the city’s top priority. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”

At approximately 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, the city issued another statement indicating that it was safe for residents of downtown Ishpeming to return to their homes, as the natural gas in that area of the city had been safely shut off.

Barricades remained in place until the utility company finished all work, and residents were urged to remain out of barricaded areas.

“The city of Ishpeming thanks the public for its cooperation and patience during this emergency response,” said the city in an official statement.

In addition, the Bargain Barn, located inside the Westwood Mall in Marquette Township, suffered a collapsed roof. The Bargain Barn Facebook page posted a pair of photos of the damage from the incident.

Annie Lippert can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. Her email address is alippert@miningjournal.net.