Part of CR 800W is expected to remain closed through the middle of next week. This sign is at the intersection of CR 800W and CR 400N. InkFreeNews photo by Liz Shepherd.

ETNA GREEN — CR 800W, north of Etna Green, is expected to remain closed through the middle of next week after a semi tractor-trailer carrying over 7,000 gallons of ethanol rolled over and caused a fire Thursday night.

According to information provided by Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Roger L. Reed, 60, Bremen, was operating a 2003 International semi tractor owned by Bellman Oil, Bremen. Reed was traveling north on CR 800W when one of the tires went off the side of the road. Reed overcorrected, causing the vehicle to roll.

Both units rolled approximately four times, igniting a fire. Reed cut his seatbelt and forced the door of the tractor open, as the tractor was on fire. Reed suffered injuries to his chest area and right arm. He was treated and released at the scene.

According to Emergency Management Director Ed Rock, “Any time you have a sustained fire on a petroleum-based product like asphalt it will cook the petroleum out which is what holds the granular parts together.”

When asked if there is concern about possible contaminated groundwater and/or contaminated soil in that area, Rock replied, “Ethanol is an organic material that can be absorbed into the field. It started as a crop and will now decompose and help grow new crops.”

Atwood, Etna Green, Nappanee, Bourbon and Winona Lake Fire Departments, as well as Lutheran EMS, Kosciusko County Emergency Management, the American Red Cross, Indiana Department of Environmental Management and Kosciusko County Highway Department responded to the accident.