SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio — A tanker truck attempting to enter Interstate 271 north in Northfield Center Township off of northbound State Route 8 fell off the side of the bridge and burst into flames on State Route 8’s northbound lanes, according to a press release from the Summit County Sheriff’s Office.
The accident occurred around 9:15 a.m. on Jan. 27 when the driver of the truck lost control while attempting to enter the interstate. The driver of the vehicle died as a result of the accident.
The truck was carrying about 7,500 gallons (28,390 liters) of diesel when it fell, according to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. A nearby creek briefly caught fire, and the agency worked to stop the spread of the fuel.
The incident prompted a response from the sheriff’s department, Macedonia Police Department, Summit County Jail deputies, HAZMAT Team and multiple fire departments.
It also forced the closure of several roads.
Authorities say the crash is still under investigation.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.