Gas Tanker vs Cargo Van (Thursday, April 30)
Sandy Hook VFR, in addition to Botsford Fire Rescue and Newtown Hook & Ladder Co #1, was dispatched to South Main Street at Meadow Brook Road at 11:57 April 30 for a reported tanker truck vs minivan with injuries. Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps was already en route following the initial calls to dispatch.
As firefighters were responding, they were advised the tank carrying 8,200 gallons of gasoline on the trailer was not damaged. The location was updated to South Main at Botsford Hill.
The collision involved a 2024 Freightliner Cascadia and a 2017 Ford Transit Connect XL cargo van.
Botsford’s Second Lieutenant was first on the scene and reported a large slick on the roads.
Sandy Hook VFR Engine 441 and Rescue 444 responded with crews. Modzelewski’s also responded to tow the cargo van and assist with initial clean-up.
Firefighters further cleared the roadway of debris. They also put down Speedi-Dri and soaker pads to stop fluids that were leaking from the truck’s engine. Firefighters additionally created a small barrier to prevent fluids from leaking into a nearby storm drain.
South Main Street initially had alternating lines of traffic moving past the scene. Newtown Police handled traffic and was able to open both directions of travel on South Main. Botsford Hill between its intersections with South Main and Botsford Lane was closed for approximately two hours, until the tanker was towed.
A second ambulance was initially added to the call for another possible transport. The second ambulance crew ultimately obtained an RMA, however.
Firefighters remained on the scene until both vehicles were towed. Sandy Hook cleared at 13:50.
View from the west/Meadow Brook Road.
