A crash on the outer loop of I-495 near Bradley Boulevard and I-270 early Sunday morning left a tractor-trailer in flames. Barrels of hazardous tungsten metal also spilled onto the road. Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) officials estimate that around 15 to 20 barrels of metal were overturned.
According to MCFRS Spokesperson Pete Piringer, the crash was caused by a hit-and-run. After colliding with the tractor-trailer, the driver left the scene.
The tractor-trailer’s diesel fuel saddle tank also ruptured, causing slick road conditions. Lanes were closed for a few hours after the crash as HazMat crews worked to clear blocked lanes of debris.
Update – OL I495 beltway in area of Bradley Boulevard/I 270 Spur, vehicle, fire extinguished, however, debris in roadway, slick road conditions, lanes blocked, @mcfrs HazMat assisting, @MDSHA @MDSP on scene NOTE: cargo/barrels contain powdered tungsten metal…15-20 barrels pic.twitter.com/mrQwgcEblO
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) June 30, 2024
Photo courtesy of MCFRS
