NTSB Opens Investigation into Fatal Illinois Collision Involving Ammonia Tanker
TEUTOPOLIS, IL – The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a safety investigation into a collision that occurred on Friday, resulting in a cargo tank carrying 7,500 gallons of anhydrous ammonia to overturn. The accident, which occurred on U.S. Highway 40 about half a mile east of Teutopolis, Illinois, involved multiple vehicles, according to authorities.
Tragically, the collision led to five fatalities and the hospitalization of six other individuals. The identities of the victims have not been released at this time.
Following the impact of the accident, the cargo tank began leaking, prompting the evacuation of approximately 500 people, as reported by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. The leaking anhydrous ammonia created dangerously toxic air conditions in the northeast area of Teutopolis, leading to the evacuation order within a one-mile radius of the crash.
A preliminary investigation conducted by the NTSB revealed that the accident was triggered when the driver of a semi-truck pulled to the right side of the road in response to another vehicle. This maneuver caused the truck to roll over, compromising the cargo tank carrying the ammonia, according to NTSB board member Tom Chapman. The cargo tank was subsequently punctured when it collided with a parked utility trailer, resulting in the leakage of approximately half of the tank’s contents.
Chapman emphasized that the NTSB will not speculate or determine the probable cause of the crash while on the scene. A preliminary report is anticipated to be released within 30 days, while the final report may take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to complete. In the meantime, the investigative team will remain on-site for four to six days.
Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns described the crash site as covering a fairly large area. Due to the dangerous air conditions resulting from the ammonia leak, emergency responders had to wait and mitigate the conditions before gaining access to the site. The highway between Teutopolis and Montrose remains closed as authorities continue their investigation.
Inhalation of anhydrous ammonia, a toxic substance, can be fatal at high concentrations. It can also cause severe burns to the skin and eyes and result in respiratory injuries. Effingham County officials have not provided details regarding the specific cause of the fatalities.
The NTSB is working in conjunction with the Illinois State Police and Effingham County Sheriff’s Department to investigate the collision. Additionally, the agency has urged witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact them.
Teutopolis, a small town with a population of just over 1,600, is located approximately 92 miles southeast of Springfield, Illinois.
(Disclaimer: The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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