Update — All lanes of Redwood Highway and I-5 Exit 55 are back open, according to ODOT.
Grants Pass, Ore., — A truck carrying liquid oxygen crashes in Grants Pass.
Hazmat crews rushed to keep it contained.
“I was inside and heard a bang and I came outside and saw a car flipped the bleep over.” said one resident, Alekah Dallman
A truck carrying liquid oxygen crashed in Grants Pass leaving nearby residents and 13 businesses evacuated or displaced.
“There’s a cop blocked across the road and just this little section is where we live, and pretty much the only road we need is blocked off.” said another resident, Dustin Dallmann.
People staying in nearby hotels on Agness Avenue were told not to leave unless they absolutely had to.
“One of the public safety officers yelled over and said what are you doing? I said I just wanted some food, and he said I needed to get away. I could see the truck over turned, they expressed Applebees was closed and I needed to go back to my hotel.” said one hotel guest, Steve Clancy.
Fire officials say it could take hours to fully lift the truck right side up, and because of the delicacy of the contents inside, a third of a mile barrier is necessary.
“Liquid oxygen is bit of a hazard material so it gives us concern, it’s under pressure and can accelerate fires if there is one or an ignition source.” said Grants Pass Fire Rescue Battalion Chief, Lang Johnson.
Crews are still investigating why the truck crashed.
When NBC5 left, the truck was still on its side.
Crews told us it could take hours to turn it right using two tow trucks and about six air bags that inflate.
The area was still blocked off and both on and off ramps at Exit 55 are still closed as well.
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