Not A Typical Hazmat Call: 'Byproducts' Cover Petaluma Roadway

PETALUMA, CA — Police are still investigating a hazmat spill that shut down roads near Auto Center Drive.

The spill was discovered when a Petaluma police officer on patrol spotted animal byproducts in an eastbound lane of Petaluma Boulevard North near Auto Center Drive, according to police.

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A truck hauling beef products spilled the animal byproducts and blood onto the roadway, prompting a hazardous materials response and temporarily shutting down nearby traffic.

Investigators later determined that a truck towing a dump trailer loaded with beef products from a local meat-processing facility had spilled debris onto the roadway while accelerating from a nearby traffic signal, Petaluma police spokesman Lt. Matthew Parnow said.

When the truck accelerated near Auto Center Drive, the contents of the trailer "sloshed" out, Parnow told reporters.

The contents covered between 40 and 50 feet of the road's second eastbound lane, he said.

The business responsible for the trailer assisted with cleanup. Petaluma firefighters, animal control, and public works also helped coordinate the cleanup and ensure the roadway was reopened.

The spill is being investigated as a hazardous materials case. Police said the business involved is cooperating with the investigation.

Anyone with information about the case can contact Lt. Matthew Parnow at or 707-778-4372. The case number is 26-1924.