Police in Columbus, Ohio, are on the lookout for the driver of a black pickup truck involved in a dramatic fireball crash with a tanker truck on Sunday. The incident occurred at 1:39 p.m. on June 22nd on the ramp connecting southbound Interstate 270 to eastbound State Route 161 on the Northeast Side of Columbus.
According to reports from The Columbus Dispatch, the black pickup truck collided with the tanker truck, which was carrying fuel, causing it to crash into the guardrail and overturn. The impact sparked a significant fire, creating a fireball that could be seen from miles away. Despite the severity of the crash, the tanker truck driver was taken to a nearby hospital in stable condition, although the extent of their injuries is not yet known.
The driver of the black pickup truck fled the scene, continuing east on State Route 161 without stopping to check on the condition of the other driver involved. Firefighters responded quickly and were able to contain the flames shortly after arriving at the scene. However, the area remained closed for several hours as investigators and cleanup crews worked to clear the wreckage.
Authorities are still searching for the motorist responsible for the crash. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Columbus police Accident Investigation Unit at 614-645-4767. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477.
