Saltwater leaks from 18-wheeler crash, ‘sustained significant damage on all sides’

DESOTO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — At approximately 5:45 a.m. this morning, DeSoto Parish Fire District responded to an 18-wheeler crash at the intersection of Smyrna Road and Highway 5 in Keatchie.

Upon arrival, emergency crews located the 18-wheeler on its side at the edge of the woods. DeSoto Parish Fire District #2 reported that the vehicle had sustained ‘significant damage on all sides.’

DPFD reported that the driver was assisted out of the cab through a window, suffered head injuries, and was transported by DeSoto EMS to Ochsner LSU Health for evaluation. The 18-wheeler driver’s injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening.

The report stated that the 18-wheeler had rear-ended a second vehicle involved in the incident. The driver of that vehicle declined EMS evaluation and did not appear to be injured.

They said the 18-wheeler was hauling salt water, which was found leaking from two areas on the trailer. Louisiana State Police’s Haz-Mat unit was notified and is en route to further evaluate and manage the spill.

At this time, there is no danger to the public, and no additional hazardous materials have been released.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office will remain on the scene, managing traffic and coordinating recovery efforts.