Newport, KY (March 14, 2026) – A crash involving a passenger car and a fuel tanker triggered a large fire and explosion on Friday night, March 13, on Interstate 471 southbound near the Memorial Parkway exit in Newport. Emergency units responded around 10:10 p.m.
The crash caused the tanker to overturn, and the fuel ignited shortly after the impact. Flames quickly spread across the area, producing a large fire and several explosions that could be seen and heard nearby. Witnesses reported loud blasts and thick plumes of smoke rising into the air as crews worked to contain the scene.
Officials said two children, ages 6 and 12, were taken to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital with minor injuries. An adult woman who was in the car was also taken to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The tanker driver, a 47-year-old man, was treated at the scene and later released. No additional injuries were reported.
The authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our thoughts are with those affected as they continue to recover.
Why Fuel Tanker Crashes Can Lead to Large Highway Fires
Fuel tanker trucks transport large amounts of gasoline or other flammable liquids across highways each day. When a tanker is involved in a crash, the cargo it carries can create additional dangers beyond the initial impact.
If a tanker overturns or its tank is damaged, fuel may spill onto the roadway or nearby surfaces. Gasoline vapors can ignite quickly when exposed to sparks, heat, or friction from damaged vehicles. This can lead to rapid fires or explosions that spread beyond the crash site.
Highway drainage systems can also allow burning fuel to travel away from the original scene. In some cases, flames may move through storm drains or underground pipes before crews are able to stop the flow.
Because of these risks, large emergency responses are often needed to secure the area and prevent the fire from spreading further.
