Problems resolved after tanker truck overturns in Athens

ATHENS – The city of Athens blocked roads and evacuated residents over the weekend after a tanker truck rolled over and began releasing a fuel gas. According to our news partner KETK, on Friday around 9 p.m., the 18-wheeler was headed south on Highway 19 just north of Athens when it tipped over while entering the eastbound ramp of Loop 7. Nearly two hours after the wreck, the city issued an evacuation radius of one-half mile, adding that the leak was non-toxic and that the driver was not injured. Authorities also blocked portions of Loop 7 and Highway 19. The Henderson County Senior Center opened to accommodate evacuees. Shortly after 4 p.m. Saturday, the evacuation notice was lifted and the Loop was opened to traffic. Officials said at the time that they expected Highway 19 to reopen shortly.