MAY 19, 2015
LONGVIEW, TX (KLTV)
A wrecker service employee was taken to the hospital Tuesday
for chemical burns sustained while handling hazardous material on the scene of
an overturned 18-wheeler on Interstate 20.
Longview Police PIO Kristie Brian says that driver of the
18-wheeler was attempting to exit I-20 on the off-ramp for exit 595 in
Longview. The driver did not slow down enough, she said, and lost control of
the vehicle, causing the trailer to roll over.
Longview Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary says the truck was
carrying 20 different products, including acids and bases, to which the wrecker
service employee was exposed. He was taken to the hospital by private vehicle
to be treated.
Six other people were evaluated at the scene, but did not
need treatment.
Zackary says that one eastbound lane of I-20 near the exit
has been closed off as Texas Department of Transportation, Longview Fire
Department, and hazmat teams work to clear the scene.