Truck crash leaves one dead, causes toxic spill

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WAVERLY — A semi truck crash that occurred early Friday on FM 1725 left one man dead and caused a toxic spill, and as of Sunday the road was still closed from Dabney Bottom Road to Gale Haven Road.

Texas Department of Public Safety officials urged motorists to drive cautiously in the area as crews work to finish the cleanup process.

DPS Sgt. Sammy Lattner said at a press conference that Michael Rider, 54, of Buna, died as a result of the crash.

Reports indicated the truck, which was hauling a tanker with about 2,800 gallons of sulfur dioxide, was traveling north on FM 1725, and for an unknown reason, ran off the road to the right, overturned and the tanker was ruptured.

Lattner said the crash tore an 8-inch hole in the side of the tank, and about 1,300 gallons had poured out.

According to the EPA, the chemical can harm respiratory systems as well as affect plant life by decreasing growth.

A shelter-in-place order was issued by SJC Office of Emergency Management on Friday affecting 60-80 homes, and troopers went door-to-door to ask residents to leave until the problem could be addressed. Additionally, a bus carrying 29 students inadvertently drove through the crash area.

Several HAZMAT crews have been called and have been working night and day to safely contain and clear the crash scene, Lattner said. Air quality around the crash site was continuously monitored throughout the cleanup and no other exposures occurred.

Investigators have not identified any witnesses to the crash but are urging anyone with information that may help investigators to call the Texas Highway Patrol Office at (936) 699-7340.

According to Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD officials, all students and the bus driver were promptly assessed and treated by EMS personnel, and out of “an abundance of caution,” they were transported to a medical facility for further evaluation.

All parents of the students involved have been notified.

TxDOT officials reopened the road for travel Sunday evening.

According to DPS officials, air quality readings indicate the area is safe for re-entry but concerned residents can call the Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health hotline at (346) 589-6717 to request supplemental testing at their home if they smell any unusual odors.