A devastating fire destroyed an historic Selma eatery Monday that at one time was a favorite of John Wayne.
The Illinois Fire District responded to a commercial fire at 8:52 a.m. and found the Smoking Duck nearly fully involved in flames. There were two apartments in the rear of the restaurant, one occupied. The occupant was able to escape with his cats.
The fire was knocked down at approximately 11 a.m. with cleanup continuing through 3:45. The Illinois Valley Fire District was assisted by Rural Metro, Oregon Department of Forestry, Grants Pass Fire, AMR, and P.P. & L. The Oregon Department of Transportation provided traffic control.