Paris, Ill. Taco Bell Closed After Carbon Monoxide Detected; Two Employees Evacuated

Firefighters found elevated carbon monoxide readings just inside the entrance of the Taco Bell at 528 E. Jasper St. in Paris after a Saturday morning report of a gas odor, prompting the evacuation of two employees and a temporary closure while the site was investigated and repaired.

Paris Fire Department crews used a four-gas detection meter to monitor interior air and identified what responders described as "elevated levels of carbon monoxide just inside the entrance." As a precautionary measure, two employees who were inside the restaurant were escorted out and no injuries were reported. Paris Fire Chief Zack Janis highlighted the department's reliance on that equipment, saying, "We are grateful for the equipment our department has available to accurately identify hazards such as this and to ensure the safety of both employees and the public." He added that "Situations like this serve as a reminder that the fire department often serves as the community’s all-hazards, universal response agency."

An on-scene fire captain asked Ameren CIPS to assist with the investigation, and the restaurant's manager and supervisor told fire personnel they were contacting their service company to arrange repairs. According to a local investigation, the problem was linked to a malfunctioning hood ventilation system. That account states, "The investigation determined that a malfunctioning hood ventilation system was not properly exhausting combustion byproducts from the restaurant’s gas appliances, resulting in a hazardous buildup of carbon monoxide inside the facility." The same reporting says Ameren CIPS red-tagged the ventilation system and advised that the business remain closed until necessary repairs are completed.

As of 1:26 p.m. on the day of the incident, the Taco Bell remained closed for repairs. Chief Janis praised the manager identified as "Tabby" for recognizing the issue and acting quickly; "That attentiveness helped prevent a potentially serious situation. Great work, Tabby." The manager is expected to notify the Fire Department when repairs are finished and the building is safe to reopen. For additional information, the Paris Fire Department can be contacted.

For employees and managers in restaurant operations, the episode underscores practical workplace realities: mechanical ventilation failures can create acute safety risks, evacuation protocols and quick calls for professional assistance can prevent harm, and reliable gas detection capabilities and training matter at every shift change. Next steps will include completion of repairs, any required inspections or clearances by utility and fire officials, and confirmation that the ventilation system is functioning before staff return to normal shifts.