Police: Speeding driver causes oil truck rollover spill in Monroe
Officials are advising residents in the Hattertown Road area to be aware of potential impacts to private wells.
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A home heating oil truck carrying approximately 3,300 gallons of fuel overturned early Monday morning at the intersection of Hattertown Road and Guinea Road in Monroe, prompting a large-scale emergency and environmental response.
Officers determined the driver was traveling west on Hattertown Road at a high rate of speed during a heavy downpour when he lost control while navigating the bend near Guinea Road. The truck overturned halfway up the hill before sliding back down and coming to rest. The driver was not injured and was cited for traveling too fast for conditions.
Stepney firefighters and Monroe police said they found the truck on its side actively leaking oil.
Fire crews initially worked to contain the spill using hazardous materials equipment. However, officials said the response was complicated by the large volume of leaking fuel, nearby waterways and heavy rainfall in the area.
Environmental cleanup operations began shortly after specialized teams arrived on scene. Emergency crews remained at the scene for approximately four hours before the truck was removed and the incident was turned over to DEEP.
Officials are advising residents in the Hattertown Road area to be aware of potential impacts to private wells.
DEEP says it is bringing in a contractor to test well water in the vicinity of the spill.
Residents who believe their well may have been contaminated are asked to contact the Monroe Health Department at 203-452-2818.
Cleanup efforts remain ongoing, and motorists should expect delays in the area.
No other injuries were reported.
