Watch CBS News

Fuel Spills Into Sewers During Tanker Explosion; Officials Confident Water Is Safe

DETROIT (WWJ) -- Cleanup crews continue to work both on and underneath the roadway where 9,000 gallons of unleaded fuel in a tanker caught fire and seeped into sewers on Sunday morning.

Speaking live on WWJ Newsradio 950, Detroit Water and Sewerage Spokesperson Curtrise Garner said that residents don't need to worry and that the water is safe.

"Our drinking water was not effected. we didn't have any structural damage, nor have we gotten any calls from residents complaining about the smell or taste of their water -- so that's a great thing," Garner said.

[MORE: Massive Tanker Fire On Ramp Shuts Down I-75 At I-375 In Detroit]

The accident was caused by a mechanical issue that made the back tires lock up and the truck overturn. No one was hurt in the accident.

"Our waste water treatment plant is superbly equipped to handle all hazards that come through our sewer system," Garner said. "The good thing about gas is that is floats, so it's going to be pretty easy to separate it and treat it, and then release it back into our environment clean."

Garner says the water remains safe to drink, cook with and bathe in.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.