Arcata Fire District press release: 

12:23PM Arcata Fire District responded to a single vehicle accident with fuel leaking from a vehicle on Little Pond Street in McKinleyville.

Upon arrival at the scene, Battalion Chief Sean Campbell recognized the fuel leaking from the vehicle could get into the storm drain. He immediately requested a response from McKinleyville Community Service District, California Highway Patrol (CHP) and a local representative from the California Fish and Wildlife. As the first Arcata Fire engine arrived on scene they deployed a hose line for protection in the event of a fire and proceeded to contain the fuel spill with absorbent and dirt around the vehicle and further down the roadway. A second engine was called to the scene to assist with containment. According to the driver, the fuel tank was full. “It appears all 15 gallons leaked from the vehicle and into the street” stated BC Campbell.

After speaking with the driver of the vehicle, investigators believe that the driver hit the pedestrian safe haven that has been installed on Murray Road. The driver had been out of the country for the past few months and was not familiar with the pedestrian safe haven located in the road. After hitting the pedestrian safe haven, the driver returned to a friend’s house and called 9-1-1.

Arcata Fire District responded with two chief officers, and two engines. CHP responded to assist with logistics. The fuel was contained prior to reaching any storm drains and no injuries were reported.