Tanker Truck Carrying Sulfuric Acid Catches Fire in Southeast Houston

Tanker Fire Incident

• 🚚 A tanker truck carrying sulfuric acid caught fire on a ramp from 610 in southeast Houston.
• 💥 The witness reported hearing at least four loud booms, described as explosions, originating from the truck's cab and spreading.
• 🔥 Flames were seen coming from the inside of the truck and falling from beneath the ramp to the ground, burning grass and asphalt.

Witness Account and Concerns

• 💡 A manager at a nearby dealership described the surprising sight of the truck blazing and the escalating flames.
• 😟 Employees and customers were concerned about the potential danger, especially as fire spread and they did not know if anyone was inside the truck.
• 🚒 An employee attempted to use a fire extinguisher on the flames on the ground, but management advised staying away due to unknown risks.

Fire Duration and Evacuation

• ⏳ The fire burned for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, starting shortly after 6 PM.
• 🚗 Employees and customers abandoned the showroom due to concerns about the fire spreading to vehicles on the premises.
• 🚧 Traffic on I-45 and 610 was significantly impacted, with parts of both freeways shut down, and some employees were unable to leave due to blockades.

Aftermath and Investigation

• ✅ Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries related to the incident.
• 🔍 Emergency crews and investigators remained on the scene after the fire was extinguished to conduct their investigation.
• 🛣️ Authorities were expected to provide updates on the duration of road closures and the status of the tanker truck.