### Sinkhole Swallows Soccer Field in Illinois in Shocking Video Caught on Camera
In a dramatic and unsettling event, a massive sinkhole measuring approximately 100 feet wide and 30 feet deep opened up in Gordon Moore Park, Alton, Illinois, on Wednesday morning. The sinkhole, which swallowed a light pole and part of the recreational fields, was captured on a nearby security camera, leaving the community in shock.
The footage shows the ground between two soccer and football fields suddenly giving way around a light pole, which then tumbles into the abyss, releasing plumes of smoke. The incident occurred at 9:18 a.m., according to Alton Parks and Recreation Director Michael Haynes.
### Cause of the Sinkhole
Haynes explained that the sinkhole was caused by a mine collapse deep underground. The mine is owned by New Frontier Materials, a company that has since taken responsibility for the incident. “It looks like something out of a movie, right? It looks like a bomb went off,” Haynes told NBC affiliate KSDK of St. Louis.
A spokesperson for New Frontier Materials confirmed that the affected area has been secured and will remain off-limits while inspectors and experts examine the mine and conduct necessary repairs. “Safety is our top priority. We will work with the city to remediate this issue as quickly and safely as possible to ensure minimal impact on the community,” the spokesperson said.
### Immediate Response and Safety Measures
Fortunately, no one was on the field at the time of the collapse, and no injuries were reported. However, the incident has led to the temporary closure of Gordon Moore Park. Alton Parks and Recreation announced on social media that the park would remain closed while the sinkhole investigation is completed. All events and programs scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday were canceled as a precaution.
### Community Reactions
The sudden appearance of the sinkhole has left the local community in disbelief. “I can’t imagine if there were a bunch of people out here,” Haynes remarked, emphasizing the fortunate timing of the incident. Local residents expressed their shock and concern, with one parent noting, “My three kids and I come here all the time. Strangely enough, my oldest wants to play soccer and that’s scary.”
Another resident, who had come to the park to play pickleball, commented, “Can’t believe that video of that thing. We came to the park today to play pickleball, but I guess not today.”
### Understanding Sinkholes
Sinkholes are natural occurrences that happen when groundwater circulates underground and dissolves the rock beneath the surface, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. They are relatively common in areas with limestone bedrock, such as Florida. However, sinkholes can also result from human activities like mining, leaky utility lines, or the decay of buried materials, as noted by Penn State Extension.
In this case, the sinkhole in Alton was attributed to the collapse of an underground mine. The mine, owned by New Frontier Materials, has a ceiling that is surprisingly narrow, measuring just 40-50 feet. This structural weakness likely contributed to the catastrophic event.
### Historical Context
This is not the first time a sinkhole has caused significant disruption. Last year, a 40-foot-wide sinkhole opened near Knoxville, Iowa, which was later determined to have been caused by a collapsed limestone mine. Such incidents highlight the potential dangers of underground mining activities and the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.
### Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, experts and inspectors will work to assess the stability of the remaining mine structures and determine the best course of action for repairs. The Mine Safety Health Administration (MSHA) has been notified of the incident, and New Frontier Materials has pledged to cooperate fully with regulatory authorities.
The community of Alton is now focused on ensuring the safety of its residents and preventing future incidents. While the park remains closed, city officials are working closely with New Frontier Materials to expedite the remediation process and restore the affected area.
### Conclusion
The sudden appearance of a massive sinkhole in Gordon Moore Park has left the Alton community reeling. Captured on camera, the dramatic event serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking beneath the surface. As investigations continue and repairs are planned, the priority remains the safety and well-being of the community.
Source: NBC News, KSDK, U.S. Geological Survey, Penn State Extension, The Des Moines Register
