The truck is said to have been carrying 8,500 gallons of gasoline.
In northeast Columbus at the intersection of Interstate 270 and state Route 161, several lanes have been shut down due to a fuel tanker truck accident that resulted in an overturn and subsequent fire.
A Columbus public safety dispatcher said officers were called on a report of a crash around 1:40 p.m.
The dispatcher told 10TV that 911 callers reported seeing the tanker truck being cut off, which then caused it to travel off the road and overturn.
The Columbus Division of Police confirmed that all lanes on Route 161 East at I-270 South are not accessible, and the off-ramp from I-270 northbound to Route 161 will also remain closed throughout the night.
The driver of the truck was transported to Riverside Methodist Hospital in “stable” condition. There are no other reported injuries at this time.
Reports indicate that the tanker was transporting 8,500 gallons of gasoline. Despite the blaze consuming most of the fuel, there are some remnants remaining. Fortunately, there is currently no active leakage of gasoline at the site.
Nearby residents, especially those with breathing issues or medical concerns, are advised to close their windows due to the smoke, according to Geitter.
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Franklin County Emergency Management Agency and Columbus Public Health are assisting with the incident. The Ohio Department of Transportation will be assessing damage on one overpass.
- I-270 South ramp to SR-161 East is closed
- All lanes are closed on I-270 North Collector at SR-161
There is no estimated timeframe for how long the area will be closed. Geitter said drivers should avoid freeways on the city’s northeast side at this time.
This is a developing story. Stick with 10TV News as we gather more information.
