FERRISBURGH — Route 7, near Dakin Farm Road, has been reopened following a natural gas tanker explosion. Cleanup crews are still present at the scene, and motorists are being asked to exercise caution while passing through the area.
The incident occurred yesterday at approximately 11:04 p.m., when a southbound natural gas tanker on Route 7 caught fire and exploded.
A motorist driving behind the tanker noticed sparks emanating from under the trailer.
This alert driver was able to overtake the tanker, stop it, and alert the operator about the fire.
Fortunately, the operator was able to evacuate the tanker before it caught fire, and no injuries were reported.
Several local fire departments, including Ferrisburgh, Bristol, Vergennes, New Haven, Addison, Shelburne, Charlotte, and Hinesburg, responded to the incident and successfully contained the fire.
The Agency of Transportation is assessing the roadway, and Green Mountain Power is on the scene restoring power to the area.
While Route 7 is now open, delays may continue as crews complete their work on the scene.
Drivers are encouraged to maintain vigilance when driving through this area.
