East Central Reporter

State Representative Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) has expressed his gratitude and honored the first responders who assisted during the tragic ammonia accident near Teutopolis. The incident occurred on September 29, 2023, when an anhydrous ammonia tank leaked after a traffic accident, resulting in five fatalities and eleven injuries. Approximately 500 residents from the east side of Teutopolis were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

During a ceremony held on January 2, 2024, at the Teutopolis Fire Protection District, Representative Niemerg presented certificates of appreciation to the following first responder teams: Clark County Ambulance Service, Dieterich Fire Protection District, Effingham County Sheriff’s Office, Greenup Area Fire Protection District EMS, Jasper County EMS, Montrose Fire Protection District, Teutopolis Fire Protection District, and Teutopolis Police Department.

In recognition of their efforts, Rep. Niemerg stated, "The quick response and cooperation of all of these first responders who showed great professionalism and teamwork to minimize the tragedy and help save lives. I want to say thank you to the emergency personnel who stepped up to coordinate resources and get this emergency under control to prevent any more loss of life. My condolences to the families who have suffered loss and injury from this tragic event."

The fatalities included an adult and two children from a local family, as well as a motorist from Missouri and another from Ohio. The driver of the anhydrous ammonia tanker was among the eleven injured individuals who were airlifted for medical treatment.

Authorities reported that the incident occurred during a period of increased traffic due to a diversion on Interstate 70 caused by an earlier crash. As a precautionary measure, a 2-square-mile area on the east side of Teutopolis was evacuated. Multiple regional hazardous materials teams, along with 15 emergency response departments and nearly 100 crew members, swiftly responded to the spill.

The dedication and professionalism shown by the first responders were instrumental in minimizing the impact of the accident and saving lives. Their coordinated efforts and swift response deserve commendation and recognition.

The community of Teutopolis extends its gratitude to these brave men and women for their selfless service and commitment to public safety. Their actions serve as a reminder of the importance of our first responders and their vital role in protecting and preserving our communities during times of crisis.

To learn more, click on this link: https://repniemerg.com/2024/01/05/rep-niemerg-honors-first-responders-for-their-help-during-ammonia-accident-near-teutopolis/