Heavy morning fog turned dangerous north of Richmond on Wednesday, when a propane delivery truck rolled at the intersection of County Road 42 and County Road 161, about 4.5 miles from town. The crash shut down multiple county roads and drew a large emergency response. The driver was trapped in the cab and had to be pulled out by fire and rescue crews before being taken to St. Cloud Hospital. Officials have not released the extent of the driver's injuries. At the same time, responders worked to contain a leaking propane tank while utilities cut power in the area as a precaution.
According to WJON, Stearns County dispatchers got the call around 7:35 a.m. Deputies say the truck rolled while the driver was attempting a left turn. The vehicle, which deputies identified as belonging to Wenner Gas Company, was leaking propane following the rollover. Hazmat teams and county crews stayed at the scene to secure the tank, and traffic control remained in place until the leak could be contained.
Road Closures And Utility Response
Per the Stearns County Sheriff's Office, County Road 161 is closed to northbound traffic at 260th Street, and County Road 42 is closed from County Road 9 to 218th Avenue while crews secure the site. Stearns County Electric shut off power to the affected area because of the propane leak, and authorities are urging drivers to steer clear of the stretch until it is cleared.
Fog, Rescue And Safety Checks
Deputies cited heavy fog as a contributing factor, saying visibility was reduced when the truck tried to make the turn. WJON reported that hazmat teams worked to secure the leak and that responders checked nearby properties as a precaution. Officials continue to tell drivers to find alternate routes and be ready for delays around the Richmond area.
Investigators remained on scene into the afternoon, and officials had no further updates on the driver's condition at the time of the latest reports. Motorists are advised to follow updates from local law enforcement and county highway crews before traveling through the area.
