Cleanup continues after crash involving a fuel tanker on US-41/I-275 in Manatee County

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) continues to investigate a crash that occurred at approximately 9:54 a.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2020.

Allen James, age 43 of Riverview, Florida, was operating a fuel tanker and traveling southbound on US-41 approaching the on-ramp to I-275.  

According to FHP, James approached the on-ramp and made a left turn too fast causing its load to shift.  The tanker was carrying approximately 8,600 gallons of fuel.  The trailer and cab overturned onto its right side.  Crews estimated that approximately 3,600 gallons of fuel spilled within the roadway and grassy shoulder.

The Department of Environmental Protection arrived on-scene to assist in the cleanup efforts.

Units from the North River Fire District arrived on scene and were assisted by Southern Manatee, East manatee and Manatee County EMS.

James suffered minor injuries and refused transport to the hospital.

As of 8:45 p.m., the work continues to clean up the scene following the crash.  The on-ramp from US-41 to southbound I-275 is still closed.