Local News
Hazardous Material Incident: Overturned Tractor-Trailer Carrying Chlorine Catches Fire in Lansdowne
Emergency crews in Baltimore County responded to a major hazmat incident on Thursday involving an overturned tractor-trailer carrying chlorine that ignited into flames.
The crash occurred on southbound MD-295 near the I-895 interchange in Lansdowne, prompting an extensive emergency response.
The tractor-trailer, which was hauling chlorine, overturned and caught fire, creating a significant hazard due to the potential release of toxic fumes.
Although no occupants were trapped in the vehicle, the situation required immediate action to contain the fire and mitigate the risk of chemical exposure.
Hazmat teams, tanker units, and a specialized crash truck from Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Airport were requested to assist in the response.
Emergency personnel worked swiftly to secure the area, extinguish the fire, and address the chlorine spill to prevent further danger to nearby traffic and communities.
Authorities have not reported any injuries, but motorists were advised to avoid the area as southbound MD-295 and surrounding routes were closed for cleanup and investigation. Air quality monitoring and decontamination measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of first responders and the public.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and further updates will be provided as more details become available.
Drivers in the region are urged to follow detours and stay informed of traffic advisories.
HARTFORD, IL — Newly released video footage reveals the harrowing moments of an ARCH Air Medical helicopter crash that occurred during a nighttime training exercise in Hartford, Illinois.
The incident took place around 9:00 p.m. on Thursday in a vacant lot near North Delmar Avenue, directly across from the Hartford Fire Department.
The video shows the helicopter attempting to lift off when one of its rotor blades struck a tree limb approximately 50 feet above ground.
The impact caused the aircraft to lose control, flip, and crash to the ground, where it immediately caught fire.
A thick plume of smoke and the glow of flames could be seen from blocks away.
In the aftermath of the crash, one of the individuals on board — identified in the video by a blue uniform — can be seen walking away from the burning wreckage.
Another survivor is shown being carried on a stretcher to a waiting ambulance.
Emergency personnel from the Hartford, South Roxana, and Wood River Fire Departments quickly responded to the scene.
The crash’s proximity to the fire station allowed first responders to act swiftly, containing the fire and rescuing the occupants.
Officials confirmed that all three people aboard the helicopter survived and were transported to area hospitals.
Two were taken by ground ambulance, while a third was airlifted by another ARCH Air Medical helicopter. Their medical conditions have not yet been released.
The crash resulted in a strong odor of aviation fuel that permeated the downtown Hartford area throughout the evening.
Authorities cordoned off the site while crews worked to stabilize the scene and mitigate any fire hazards.
The helicopter was participating in a routine training mission when the incident occurred.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and are conducting a full investigation into the cause of the crash.
ARCH Air Medical has not yet released an official statement.
More details will be provided as the investigation continues and additional information becomes available.