TEUTOPOLIS, Ill. — An overturned semitruck carrying a toxic substance in Illinois caused a hazardous situation, prompting the evacuation of local residents and resulting in “multiple fatalities,” according to authorities.
Emergency responders, including firefighters, police, and hazmat specialists, rushed to the scene near Teutopolis late Sept. 29 and worked to contain the cloud of anhydrous ammonia that had escaped from the overturned tanker, continuing their efforts into the following day.
Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns expressed the bravery of the first responders as they worked to address the dangerous conditions caused by the accident. However, he did not provide specific numbers on the fatalities or injuries resulting from the incident.
Authorities were initially under the impression that there were five fatalities, but this turned out to be a premature determination amidst the confusion of the situation, said Illinois State Police spokesperson Melaney Arnold.
The accident, which involved multiple vehicles including the tanker, occurred about a half-mile east of Teutopolis on U.S. Highway 40 around 9:25 p.m., according to the Illinois State Police.
Chief Tim McMahon of the Teutopolis Fire Protection District revealed that the tanker began leaking after rolling over in a ditch, contributing to the dangerous air conditions in the area.
Anhydrous ammonia, a toxic substance, can have severe health effects if not handled properly, ranging from lung irritation to potential death at higher concentrations. The substance is also corrosive, with the ability to burn the skin and eyes.
Teutopolis is located approximately 92 miles southeast of Springfield.