Two transport trucks in collision on HWY 897 starts fire

An early morning collision between two transport trucks reduced Highway 897 to a single lane as tow truck crews worked to remove the damaged vehicles from the roadway.

The County of Vermilion River Protective Services said earlier on Tuesday at just after 9:00am that Kitscoty Fire Department, Paradise Valley Fire Department and County Chief Hughes responded to an accident with entrapment.

The collision saw one vehicle with one patient requiring extrication, and a second vehicle in the ditch that had caught on fire carrying dangerous goods, authorities said. Bystanders were able to use fire extinguishers to put the fire out while waiting for firefighters.

Pump and engine companies from Paradise Valley and Kitscoty blanketed the area in high density foam while rescue crews worked to remove a patient.

The trailer hauling dangerous goods was examined and determined to be intact.

A Voyent Alert has been issued and Alberta Transportation notified for a 511 call.

Community Peace Officers, Kitscoty RCMP and Alberta Sheriffs remain on-scene providing traffic control while a duty crew works with Action Towing and Recovery to clear the highway.

Alberta Environment was notified of the spill. There is no threat to the public.

The RCMP are investigating the collision.