Jackknifed Tractor Trailer Spills Toxins Onto I-78

SUMMIT, NJ — A tractor-trailer jackknifed on Interstate 78 West in Summit on Sunday causing about 50 gallons of diesel fuel and about 7 gallons of motor oil to spill out onto the highway, Berkeley Heights Fire Department reported.

The tractor had come to rest on top of the barrier and the diesel fuel tank as well as the oil pan had ruptured causing the spill. Berkeley Heights Fire Department worked to prevent the toxins from flowing into a nearby storm drain.

"One of the lesser known responsibilities the Fire Dept has is protection of the environment in addition to protection of life and property," the Berkeley Heights Fire Department posted. "These storm drains empty into brooks and creeks that could affect numerous communities including Berkeley Heights. An incident like this requires many agencies to work together to successfully bring it to a successful conclusion."

Summit Fire Dept, Berkeley Heights Fire Dept, Springfield Fire Dept, Union County Haz Mat, New Jersey State Police, DeFalco’s Towing and the New Jersey Department of Transportation all responded to the accident.

There were no injuries from this incident.

(Photos via Berkeley Heights Fire Department)

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