Empire Church Road has been shut down near Bear Lake Road after a sinkhole was reported early this morning, prompting an immediate response from Lake County officials.

According to reports from area residents, the sinkhole was first noticed in the early morning hours and has continued to grow. As a result, officials have closed Empire Church Road at Anderson Road and at Mascotte Empire Church Road to prevent traffic from entering the affected area. Officials are currently on scene assessing the situation and determining next steps to ensure public safety.

Drivers are being advised to use Mattioda Road and Anderson Road as alternate routes and to avoid the area entirely while crews work to evaluate the sinkhole. Residents are urged to remain cautious, follow posted detours and stay clear of the roadway as conditions continue to change.

We will continue to update as we get more information.

Photos provided by Damian A. Vila