South Metro Fuel Tanker Crash

At 02:21 on March 30th, 2024 South Metro Fire Rescue responded to a traffic collision on southbound I-25 between Castle Pines Parkway and Happy Canyon Rd. Upon arrival, Engine 36 and Medic 36 found an overturned semi with major damage. Fire Medics quickly extracted the truck driver from the scene and transported them to the hospital with serious injuries. The semi was hauling a 9000 gallon tank with diesel fuel which was actively leaking. A hazardous materials response was dispatched and unified command between SMFR, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado State Patrol, and Colorado Department of Transportation was established. Firefighters used hand tools to dig dams in the dirt along the highway where the fuel was flowing, and protection hose lines were ready in case the fuel ignited. Evacuations were initially considered but not necessary. Hazmat Technicians donned splash protection suits over their fire resistive clothing and stopped several leaks on the tanker to prevent a larger spill. They estimated 2500 gallons spilled into the dirt/grass area adjacent to the highway. By sunrise Ambipar Environmental Services arrived and worked with the hazmat team to pump pooled fuel in the ravine into drums. At the same time, Westside Towing used 2 heavy wreckers to secure the tanker, which allowed Hazmat Technicians to safely drill holes and siphon remaining fuel into another tanker. Once the fuel offloading was competed the tanker can be pulled out and towed away. Colorado State Patrol is conducting the accident investigation. Additional information provided by South Metro Fire Rescue

Initial Response: Engine 36, Medic 36 & Engine 39

Hazmat Response: District Chief 1, Med 1, Safety 2, Hazmat 17, Medic 17, Hazmat 38, PIO 10, PIO 12, Bureau 13 & Bureau 21

Special Call: Safety 1, Engine 16, Engine 33, Ladder 34, Tender 40, Engine 44, Engine 46 & Logistics 10

Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado State Patrol & CDOT