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Driver transported to hospital with burn injuries

 

COLUMBUS– Thursday morning both lanes of I-26 were shut down after a gasoline tanker rolled over and burst into flames near mile marker 62.  

Officials say the crash occurred around 5:30 a.m and when they arrived to the scene they found the tanker rolled onto it’s side fully engulfed in flames.

After firefighters were able to put out the blaze both eastbound lanes were reopened.

Approximately around 11 a.m., one westbound lane was reopened while firefighters continued to clean the gasoline spill.

 

Nearly 8,000 gallons of gasoline spilled and spread into the woods which caused hazmat specialists to respond to the scene and many local creeks and rivers. A statement was released warning the public to stay out of nearby waterbeds.

The driver of the gasoline tanker was conscious and airlifted to Spartanburg Regional with burn injuries.

Heavy traffic delays took place throughout the day due to there being no access to I-26 westbound from Hwy 108, US 74 and Hwy 176 until the lanes were reopened.

Saluda Fire and Rescue, Town of Columbus Fire Department, Asheville Fire Department and Regional One Air Medical were all on scene.