Investigation underway following gas delivery truck that overturned and caught on fire

LA JUNTA, Colo. (KRDO)-- The cause of a crash is now being investigated after a gas delivery truck overturned and caught on fire. 

Crew members with the La Junta Fire Department were called to the scene at around 8:18 a.m. on Tuesday, August 15. 

It was reported that a gas truck was on fire on Highway 50, about three miles east of La Junta. 

The La Junta Fire Department stated Fire Chief Davidson arrived on scene and reported finding both eastbound lanes blocked with heavy fire coming from an overturned gas delivery truck. 

That’s when crews began knocking down the surrounding area of fire and mutual aid was requested from Rocky Ford Fire and Las Animas Fire for water supply.

The La Junta Police Department (LJPD), the Otero County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO), and Colorado State Patrol (CSP) helped shut the highway down and perform traffic control.

The La Junta Fire Department reported 1100 gallons of diesel and gasoline is what was causing the burning. Now, the cause of the crash is being investigated by CSP.

Meanwhile, the truck driver, who was found on the other side of the Highway, was given aid by crew members who later transported him to the hospital.