TEUTOPOLIS, Ill. – The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into a fatal collision that resulted in a cargo tank carrying 7,500 gallons of anhydrous ammonia overturning in Illinois. The incident occurred on U.S. Highway 40 near Teutopolis, causing multiple fatalities and prompting the evacuation of 500 people due to leakages from the cargo tank.
According to NTSB board member Tom Chapman, the accident was triggered when a semi-truck driver veered to the right of the road in response to another vehicle, resulting in the truck overturning and compromising the cargo tank. The impact punctured the tank, causing a substantial amount of anhydrous ammonia to leak.
Chapman emphasized that the NTSB will refrain from speculating on the cause of the crash at this time. The investigative team is expected to remain at the scene for several days before releasing a preliminary report within 30 days.
Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns revealed that the ammonia leak led to dangerous air conditions in the area, necessitating the evacuation of residents within a one-mile radius of the crash site. While some evacuation orders were lifted the following evening, officials have refrained from commenting on the cause of the fatalities.
The inhalation of anhydrous ammonia can be fatal at high concentrations and can cause severe respiratory injuries, burns, and other health issues, according to authorities. Teutopolis, a town of approximately 1,600 people, is located about 92 miles southeast of Springfield, Illinois.
The NTSB has stated that it will collaborate with the Illinois State Police and the Effingham County Sheriff’s Department in investigating the crash. The circumstances surrounding the collision and the safety of transporting hazardous materials on the highway are likely to be closely examined in the coming days.
As the investigation into the collision unfolds, authorities are seeking information from witnesses and individuals with relevant details to aid in the probe. With the potential for long-term closure of the affected highway and implications for local safety regulations, the aftermath of the incident is likely to be closely monitored by both authorities and the public.