Leighton Township Fire Dept. explains explosion noise

Many area posters on Facebook Sunday night reported an extremely large explosion noise coming from the Moline area near the railroad. The Leighton Township Fire Department Monday issued a statement to explain what occcurred: “Just an update. Yes, there was a big boom tonight in the Moline area. It is only a large bonfire of tree roots, stumps, and pallets. Gasoline is the suspect that was used to start it and cause the boom. Yes, not the best ignition source. There is a burn permit for it and nothing illegal burning. There is a water source and a dozer to put it out if needed.”