A gasoline tanker truck erupted in flames early Sunday morning in Fort Worth, Texas, after colliding with another vehicle and knocking over power lines. The driver, who was hauling 9,000 gallons of gasoline, was left in critical condition, according to Fort Worth authorities.
The 18-wheeler spun off the road near a Valero gas station, causing the gasoline to leak. Downed power lines then sparked a fire around 1 a.m., said Fort Worth Fire Department spokesperson Craig Trojacek. Fire crews spent hours spraying the tanker with water and using sand to contain the gasoline, leaving the scene around 7 a.m.
The driver was hospitalized with burns, but no other injuries were reported. Witnesses described the fire as intense, with plumes of smoke rising from the truck. One witness, Bailey Moss, said he heard a loud crash and saw the fire spread quickly.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The tanker truck collided with another vehicle, knocking over power lines and causing a fire. The driver was critically injured, and the truck was carrying 9,000 gallons of gasoline.
Deeper Dive & Context
Fire Containment Efforts
Firefighters worked for hours to contain the blaze, using water and sand to prevent the gasoline from spreading. The fire was extinguished by 7 a.m., according to Trojacek.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported hearing a loud crash and seeing the fire spread rapidly. The heat from the fire was felt even from a distance, according to one witness.
Investigation and Response
Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision and the subsequent fire. The driver's condition remains critical, and no other injuries have been reported.