| At approximately 11:47 a.m. today, units from Station 3 and surrounding EMS companies were dispatched to the area of Hermanville Road at Piper Court in Park Hall for a reported motor vehicle accident with unknown injuries.
While en route, Emergency Communications Center personnel advised responding units that the incident involved a truck towing a trailer with fuel leaking. Based on this information, the call was upgraded to a hazardous materials (Haz-Mat) emergency, prompting additional specialized resources to respond. These included Engine Tanker 94 from Station 9, Haz-Mat 18, units from the St. Mary’s County Department of Emergency Services, Haz-Mat teams from Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Naval District Washington Haz-Mat 13, and Engine 132.
Squad 3 arrived on the scene and conducted an initial size-up, identifying a two-vehicle collision involving a Maryland State Police trooper and a utility truck towing a trailer operated by St. Mary’s County MetCom. The trailer had overturned, resulting in a diesel fuel leak.
Haz-Mat personnel quickly assessed the situation and determined the leak to be minor. Crews applied a specialized stop-leak putty to contain the fuel, preventing further environmental impact and ensuring the safety of responders and the public.
The Maryland State Police trooper sustained injuries as a result of the crash and was transported by Maryland State Police Aviation Command Trooper 7 to an area trauma center for further evaluation and care.
With the hazard mitigated, the incident was scaled back, holding Squad 3, Haz-Mat resources, and Ambulance 397 on the scene for final mitigation and evaluation. Deputy Fire Chief Steven Vanness established and maintained command throughout the operation.
This incident highlights the importance of remaining alert while driving, especially in areas with active emergency response. Motorists are reminded to slow down, move over for emergency vehicles, and always maintain a safe following distance to help prevent accidents. |
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