Tuesday evening’s commute on Cincinnati’s east side turned into a long, flashing standstill after a tanker truck hauling liquid fertilizer caught fire on eastbound I-275 near the Five Mile Road exit in Anderson Township, shutting down the highway and backing up traffic across the suburbs.
Fire crews moved in quickly to knock down the flames, and emergency responders stayed on scene as they worked to clear the wreckage and secure the area. Authorities said no other vehicles were involved, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Hamilton County dispatch informed first responders that the tanker was loaded with liquid fertilizer and confirmed the fire had been brought under control, while the Ohio Department of Transportation reported that all eastbound lanes near the Five Mile Road exit were closed, according to WCPO. Investigators are still working to determine what sparked the blaze.
Emergency response and hazmat precautions
Any time a tanker is involved, crews operate with extra caution because of the large volume of material on board and the potential hazards if something leaks or ignites. Scenes are typically isolated, with specialized teams called in if there is any sign of contamination or a hazardous spill.
The U.S. Fire Administration notes that tanker and hazardous-material incidents require tight coordination, structured hazmat protocols, and firm control of the scene to protect both responders and the public. Local departments often work alongside hazmat units and ODOT to limit exposure, manage runoff, and guide cleanup.
Traffic and commuter impact
All eastbound lanes of I-275 were shut down at the Five Mile Road exit while firefighters and highway crews worked, pushing traffic onto side streets and feeder roads as drivers tried to thread their way around the closure. Motorists are urged to check ODOT’s OHGO traffic map for real-time detours and lane status before heading into the area.
Officials warned that residual delays could continue through the evening as crews remove equipment and inspect the roadway before fully reopening the interstate.
Investigation
Hamilton County dispatch confirmed that the incident remains under investigation and has not released any findings on what caused the fire or whether citations might follow. WCPO reported it will update its coverage as officials share more information. Hoodline will update this report when local agencies release additional details to the public.
