L’Observateur / July 1, 1998

GRAMERCY – A gasoline tank truck overturned Friday at Airline Highway’s intersection with Louisiana Highway 641 and stopped traffic for a half- mile in all directions, according to Louisiana State Police Troop A.

The road stayed closed until 2 a.m., Saturday.Trooper Trevor Smith said driver Carl A. Sandlin, 41, 1133 Abadie,Vacherie, was not injured in the accident, which apparently happened when Sandlin turned left toward the Veterans Memorial Bridge at 12:56 p.m. and the truck turned over on its right side.The truck was transporting a full load of 8,400 gallons of gasoline.

Smith added that several leaks from the gasoline tank seals prompted authorities to seal off the area and send volunteer firefighters from the Gramercy VFD to foam down the truck.

The State Police spokesman said later that 2,800 gallons were recovered in the accident and loaded onto another tanker; however, an estimated 5,600 gallons were lost.

Sandlin was driving for Waguespack Oil Co., Vacherie. Smith said. He added both the company and the driver could be cited administrative charges of careless handing of a hazardous material.

Sandlin, who was not issued a criminal citation, was out of his vehicle and walking around when authorities arrived at the accident scene.

The driver told authorities a wind gust had shifted the truck, causing him to lose control as it tipped onto its side.

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