Tanker Truck Fire on I-270 Investigated as Hit-and-Run
The Columbus Division of Police is seeking the owner of a black pickup truck involved in a tanker truck fire on I-270 this weekend. The incident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday when a tractor tanker trailer carrying 8,500 gallons of fuel was traveling south on I-270 and preparing to exit onto State Route 161 eastbound.
According to police, the black pickup truck was traveling alongside the tractor trailer when it lost control and struck the tanker, causing it to hit a guardrail and flip over. The impact ignited a fire, and the tanker trailer was engulfed in flames. The driver of the tanker was treated for minor injuries at Riverside Hospital.
Police said the owner of the black pickup truck fled the scene without stopping or assisting the driver of the tanker trailer. The fire caused a closure of I-270, which was reopened early Monday morning after the roadway was deemed safe.
An investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information about the driver of the black pickup truck to come forward. Those with knowledge can contact the Accident Investigation Unit at (614) 645-4767. Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can contact Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-8477.
