Early Friday morning, a semitrailer crash resulted in the closure of all northbound lanes on Interstate 35W in Lino Lakes, Minnesota, causing significant disruption to morning commuters. The Minnesota State Patrol confirmed the crash occurred at 3:48 a.m. near Lake Drive N., involving a single vehicle—a semitrailer transporting fuel.
According to Lt. Mike Lee of the State Patrol, no other vehicles were involved in the incident, and fortunately, there were no reported injuries. However, the crash caused a fuel leak, prompting immediate action from hazardous materials crews to mitigate potential environmental and safety risks.
"The semi was the only vehicle involved and was hauling fuel that eventually leaked due to the crash," Lt. Lee explained. Hazmat teams have been diligently working to clean up the scene and secure the area to prevent further complications.
The northbound lanes of I-35W are expected to remain closed throughout the morning as cleanup efforts and investigations continue. The State Patrol has urged drivers to find alternate routes, as the closure significantly impacts traffic flow in the area.
Authorities have not yet provided an estimated timeline for reopening the highway, emphasizing the priority of ensuring the area is safe before resuming normal operations.
The cause of the crash has not yet been disclosed, but such incidents often involve factors like mechanical failure, driver error, or adverse weather conditions. Investigators are likely examining the vehicle’s condition, driver logs, and other evidence to determine what led to the accident.
Traffic disruptions are anticipated to ripple through the surrounding roadways as drivers divert to secondary routes. Local authorities are coordinating efforts to manage the increased congestion and facilitate smoother travel for affected commuters.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards of transporting flammable materials and the critical importance of swift responses by emergency services. Cleanup operations involving hazardous materials require precision and care, as the leaked fuel poses risks not only to the immediate environment but also to nearby residents and road users.
While no injuries occurred in this crash, the situation underscores the need for ongoing safety measures and regulations governing the transport of hazardous materials. Authorities are likely to review this incident to identify lessons that can enhance road safety and emergency response protocols in the future.
