Phoenix, AZ : Tanker crash, spill to close NB I-17 on Thursday morning June 26th 2014

Northbound lanes of I-17 at New River have reopened following an oil tanker rollover and oil spill, an Arizona Department of Transportation spokesman said.

The oil tanker rolled onto its side and spilled used motor oil, forcing the closure about one mile south of Table Mesa Road in New River on Thursday morning.

Drivers traveling from Phoenix to northern Arizona destinations such as Flagstaff had to use alternate routes through Prescott or Payson and plan for extended travel times, the spokesman said.

A hazardous materials crew spent hours cleaning up the spill.

The truck's driver drifted toward another truck and overcorrected, said Bart Graves of the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

An Arizona Department of Transportation spokesman said the tanker had rolled onto its side and spilled the oil about 4 a.m. The tanker had spun and was facing oncoming traffic after the crash.

Traffic was backed up for miles, stranding many motorists in their vehicles.

Southbound traffic was not affected, the spokesman said.

No other information was immediately available.

Source :
ADOT: NB I-17 reopens after tanker crash, spill