SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A tragic tanker truck crash in central Illinois has left five people dead and additional serious injuries. The crash occurred Friday night on U.S. 40 in Teutoplis, Illinois, a small community approximately 110 miles northeast of St. Louis.
The tanker, carrying caustic anhydrous ammonia, jackknifed and hit a utility trailer parked just off the highway. It is believed that the crash may have been triggered when another vehicle attempted to pass the chemical-laden truck. This resulted in a six-inch hole in the chemical container, according to Tom Chapman, a member of the National Transportation Safety Board.
Effingham County Coroner Kim Rhodes confirmed that the deceased included three members of the same family – one adult and two children under 12 – as well as two adult motorists from out of state. In addition to the fatalities, five individuals were airlifted to hospitals, with their conditions remaining unknown at this time.
The crash spilled approximately half of the truck’s 7,500 gallon load of anhydrous ammonia, creating hazardous air conditions in the northeastern area of Teutopolis. As a result, about 500 residents within a 1-mile radius of the crash site were evacuated, and emergency crews worked tirelessly to control the plume from the leak.
The tragedy in Teutopolis is a grim reminder of the potential dangers associated with handling hazardous materials on public highways. Anhydrous ammonia, commonly used by farmers to add nitrogen fertilizer to the soil, poses serious health risks if inhaled and is also utilized as a refrigerant in large buildings.
As the investigation into the crash continues, authorities are working to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal crash. The tight-knit community of Teutopolis has come together in the wake of this disaster, while emergency responders and environmental contractors are focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.