TEUTOPOLIS, IL — Following the catastrophic HAZMAT disaster on U.S. Route 40 near Teutopolis, Illinois State Police have identified the suspected driver linked to the accident, though the name remains under wraps.
Insights indicate a vehicle overtaking a tanker truck, causing the latter to swerve and crash into a parked utility trailer. The disastrous chain of events led to a punctured tank and a subsequent deadly anhydrous ammonia leak, claiming five lives and injuring seven others, and evacuating the town.
After the release of video footage soliciting community assistance, residents from Montrose and Teutopolis rallied together, providing key information that led to the driver’s identification.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly expressed deep gratitude to the communities, emphasizing their role in this pivotal breakthrough. As the investigation progresses in partnership with the Effingham County State’s Attorney’s Office, the driver’s details remain undisclosed, keeping the community in anticipation.
