Cleanup From Tanker Accident Closes NC 96

Motorists who travel on Highway 96 near Selma can expect a detour Tuesday and Wednesday.  An environmental cleanup crew is working to clean up contaminated soil from the scene of a fuel tanker accident May 2nd on Highway 96 near Live Oak Church Road.

John Ennis, 45, of Benson was headed northbound in a fuel tanker when he ran off the roadway and overturned. An estimated 2,000 gallons of gasoline spilled from the overturned truck which was hauling 8,500 gallons of fuel. He was cited by the Highway Patrol with failing to maintain lane control.  No other vehicles were involved.

A detour will be in place today (Tuesday) and Wednesday. Traffic will be rerouted onto Thorne Road and Little Divine Road.  The detour is planned between 7:00 am and 6:00pm both days.  Photos by John Payne