Destruction At Oak Forest Bowl Captured In Drone Photos

OAK FOREST, IL — The heartbreaking destruction at the beloved Oak Forest Bowl following a massive fire early Saturday has been captured in drone photos.

The images by Burbank-based Above All Drone Services show what's left of the iconic decades-old Oak Forest bowling alley, 15240 S. Cicero Ave. The brick entryway and electric business sign still stand tall, flanked by charred walls along Cicero Avenue. With the roof completely gone, the photos show a blackened interior with only metal components and wiring left where 32 bowling lanes once were.

Outside in the adjacent recreation space The Park, the bar is gone, with just portions remaining of the railing overlooking the beer garden, bean bag areas and sand volleyball pits.

The building was a complete loss in the extra-alarm fire that started outside the alley, before quickly swallowing the rest of the building, collapsing the roof and destroying the entirety of the interior. The cause is under investigation by the state fire marshal.

<< READ ALSO: 'The Park Is Gone, Keith': Staff Crushed By Burning Of Oak Forest Bowl >>

Oak Forest Bowl owner Keith Tadevich took to social media in the hours after the fire.

"Most importantly, we are glad no one was injured in the devastating fire that occurred last night at Oak Forest Bowl," Tadevich wrote. "Please give us some time to get things straightened out and process what has happened."

Tadevich is a fourth-generation owner of the business. He looked on and consoled employees as the fire swept through the building. On Sunday, he thanked the community for its support.

"While obviously devastated by the tragic fire at Oak Forest Bowl, I am grateful no one was injured," he reiterated. "I want to personally thank everyone for the show of support and compassion while my staff, family and I learn how to deal with this tragedy.

"Thank You, Keith Tadevich."