East Central Reporter

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released the "docket" for its investigation into a fatal crash near Teutopolis in 2023. The incident involved a semi-truck carrying anhydrous ammonia, which overturned and released toxic vapors, resulting in five fatalities and several hospitalizations. A significant portion of the community was evacuated due to the hazardous leak.

State Representative Brad Halbrook commented on the progress of the investigation: “We just passed the one-year anniversary of this tragedy, and it’s encouraging to see that the investigation is moving forward, and investigators have made the information collected so far public.”

The accident occurred on September 29, 2023, when the truck swerved to avoid another vehicle in a construction zone on Highway 40. The NTSB's docket includes preliminary reports from their agency, a reconstruction report by the Illinois State Police, and details regarding hazardous materials, construction zones, and drivers involved.

Rep. Halbrook expressed his approval of continued analysis by the NTSB: “I was pleased that the NTSB will be continuing with their analysis, findings, and safety recommendations as well. We must work to prevent this type of tragedy from happening again.”

Earlier this year, Rep. Halbrook introduced House Bill 5422 to improve information sharing between state transportation officials and local entities about highway projects. Although stalled in committee by a Democrat supermajority, he plans to reintroduce it with support from local law enforcement.