Multiple Fatalities Confirmed in Illinois Semi-Truck Crash and Ammonia Leak
Effingham County, Illinois – A tragic accident involving a semi-truck has resulted in multiple fatalities and an ammonia leak, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Friday night on US Highway 40, about a half mile east of Teutopolis.
Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns described the scene as large and complicated. Emergency crews have been working tirelessly to contain the leak, which is still ongoing as of Saturday morning.
Parts of Teutopolis had to be evacuated due to the plume from the ammonia leak. Residents within an estimated 1-mile radius of the crash, including northeastern parts of Teutopolis, were evacuated for their safety.
At least five people were airlifted to local hospitals, according to Teutopolis Fire Chief Tim McMahon. Crews have been working overnight to patch up a rupture on the semi-truck, slowing down the leak but not completely stopping it.
Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns stated that there is no timeframe for when residents will be able to return home. The evacuation orders are still in effect, and a shelter has been set up for those affected.
Anhydrous ammonia, which was leaked from the semi-truck, is a highly dangerous substance. It can cause severe irritation and burns to the skin, lungs, eyes, throat, and mouth, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High levels of ammonia can also be lethal.
Effingham County, with an estimated population of about 34,000, is located approximately two hours south of Springfield, the capital of Illinois.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash and the subsequent ammonia leak. The safety and wellbeing of the affected residents remain a top priority as emergency crews work to mitigate the situation.