Tanker Truck Overturns & Spills at Southern Minnesota Interchange

Mankato, MN (KROC-AM News)- Members from multiple emergency response agencies were dispatched to an overturned tanker truck that spilled its contents at a Minnesota interchange. 

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A news release issued Wednesday by the Blue Earth County Sheriff’s Office says the incident was initially reported as an accident with injuries on Tuesday afternoon. 

A witness reported a tanker truck had overturned and that fluid was leaking from its side. The semi was the only vehicle involved. 

Truck Carrying Liquid Chemical Overturns & Spills in Southern Minnesota

The crash occurred at a roundabout that controls traffic at the Hwy. 14/Blue Earth County Rd. 12 interchange, which is just east of Mankato. 

52-year-old Jason Glenn Smebak of Little Falls was identified as the truck driver. He was transported from the scene by ambulance to a hospital for treatment of what are being described as minor injuries. 

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Authorities determined the tanker was hauling diluted calcium chloride, which is a liquid commonly used to suppress dust on gravel roads. 

Officials have determined hundreds of gallons of the chemical had leaked before the truck and trailer could be secured and returned back onto its wheels. 

The chemical spill is expected to have a minor environmental impact, the news release says. Authorities are continuing to investigate the crash.

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