Gasoline tanker crashes in Kocaeli! Explosion risk reported, homes evacuated

According to the information obtained, the gasoline-laden tanker traveling in the direction of Yalova on the D-130 Highway in the Gölcük district crossed into the opposite lane after the driver lost steering control and struck the iron railings on the median.

The tanker, which could not stop for 150 meters, hit the pillar of an overpass bridge and then struck two parked pickup trucks. The tractor unit of the tanker then detached after hitting a light commercial vehicle coming from the opposite direction. The detached tractor unit flew from the D-130 Highway into the street across.

While the tanker driver was slightly injured in the accident, gasoline spilled onto the road. Upon notification, health, police, fire department, and AFAD teams were dispatched to the scene. While health teams arriving at the scene in a short time took the injured person to the hospital, police teams closed both the Yalova and İzmit directions of the D-130 Highway to traffic due to the risk of an explosion.

Additionally, citizens in the surrounding buildings were evacuated.

Traffic flow is being diverted through the city center. Furthermore, fire and police teams continue to keep citizens away from the area. Fire crews are applying foam to the area due to the risk of an explosion.

EXPLOSION RISK REPORTED, HOMES EVACUATED

Aysel Sütlüce, who was removed from her home due to the risk of an explosion, said, “The police made an announcement, and we went outside immediately in fear. The tanker that crashed had crushed the vehicles. Homes were evacuated because there is a danger of an explosion. We were very scared."

Ömer Çengel stated, "The tanker hit 3 vehicles. Gasoline is constantly leaking from the tanker. The police evacuated the house. We are currently waiting outside."

News Source: İHA