Teutopolis, a quiet community situated approximately 110 miles northeast of St. Louis, was plunged into chaos on Friday night when a semitruck carrying caustic anhydrous ammonia crashed, resulting in five fatalities, injuries to five others, and a hazardous chemical leak. The tanker truck, which toppled around 21.25, spilled more than half of its 7,500-gallon load, creating a perilous situation that led to the evacuation of approximately 500 residents within a 1-mile radius of the crash site.

Effingham County Coroner Kim Rhodes confirmed that the deceased included three members of the same family—one adult and two children under 12—along with two adult motorists from out of state. Names of the victims have not been released, and authorities have refrained from discussing the causes of death. Additionally, five individuals were airlifted to hospitals, with their conditions currently unknown.

The tanker, carrying the hazardous caustic anhydrous ammonia, was promptly drained and relocated to a secure location for a thorough investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Teutopolis Assistant Fire Chief Joe Holomy stated on Saturday that testing indicated the dissipation of the ammonia danger, allowing residents to return to their homes.

Effingham County Sheriff Paul Kuhns commended the bravery of emergency crews, including firemen, EMTs, hazmat specialists, and police officers, who worked tirelessly despite challenges posed by the hazardous conditions. Private and federal environmental contractors have been engaged to recommend a cleanup procedure in Teutopolis, a town of 1,600 people.

The accident caused a large plume of anhydrous ammonia, resulting in dangerously polluted air conditions in the northeast area of Teutopolis. Emergency responders had to exercise caution, waiting until conditions were mitigated before engaging in recovery efforts.

Anhydrous ammonia, commonly used by farmers for nitrogen fertiliser and in cooling systems, poses severe health risks. The American Chemical Society notes its transportation around the United States by pipeline, trucks, and trains. The incident in Teutopolis joins a list of tragic incidents involving anhydrous ammonia, emphasising the importance of strict regulations and safety measures in transporting hazardous materials on public highways.