Overturned tanker truck prompts hazmat response on Hwy 17 in Santa Cruz Mountains

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KRON) — An overturned tanker truck on Highway 17 between Los Gatos and Scotts Valley in the Santa Cruz Mountains Thursday morning has prompted a hazmat response, according to authorities.

The California Highway Patrol responded to the tanker truck crash on southbound Highway 17 near Sugarloaf Road around 7:30 a.m. Both southbound lanes are closed as multiple agencies respond. One of the two northbound lanes is being used for southbound traffic, while the other is for northbound traffic.

Photos shared by CHP show a gasoline tanker trailer on its side in the roadway, while the truck and a second tanker are down a steep embankment.

According to the CHP incident log, the truck’s driver sustained injuries to the head.

The Santa Clara County Fire Department dispatched its Hazmat 72 team to assist the Scotts Valley Fire Department, along with Engine 72, Truck 85, Urban Search & Rescue 85, Rescue 83, Battalion 83, and an incident support officer.

Motorists are advised to use alternate routes to avoid the area. It is unknown when the roadway will fully reopen.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.