Semi rollover blocks I-80 lanes near New Lenox, prompts hazmat response

NEW LENOX, Ill. - Westbound lanes on Interstate 80 were closed Thursday morning after a rollover crash involving a semitrailer carrying hazardous materials near southwest suburban New Lenox.

Officers responded to the crash about 8:30 a.m., in a construction zone in the westbound lanes of I-80 near mile marker 138, according to Illinois State police. A preliminary investigation found that the driver, a 33-year-old man from Chicago, attempted to change from lanes, lost control of the truck and struck the guardrail on the right side of the roadway.

The truck’s tractor was carrying triethyl phosphate in liquid form that was leaking from the trailer, police said. Officers on scene estimate that about 100 gallons of the substance leaked onto the interstate.

Due to the spill, all I-80 westbound lanes were closed, police said.

Hazmat clean up crews were called about 10:30 a.m. and the spill has since been contained, police said. The Illinois Department of Transportation are aiding with lane closures.

Traffic is being redirected onto I-355 northbound from I-80 westbound, police said. The I-355 southbound to I-80 westbound ramp was also closed.

The driver of the semitrailer was cited for improper lane usage with additional charges pending further investigation, police said.