E19 Tanker Crash Kills Driver, Spills 20,000L, Causing Major Delays

Minderhout (Eurotoday) – A tanker truck collision on the E19 near Minderhout resulted in a major fuel leak (20,000 litres), trapping and killing the driver. The E19 towards Breda is closed, resulting in significant delays. 

An accident occurred on the E19 motorway at the Minderhout parking area. A tanker truck was involved in the crash. The truck cabin got stuck under the tank, trapping the driver inside. Emergency services arrived quickly to assist and worked hard to free the driver. 

Unfortunately, the driver did not survive the accident, which has caused major traffic problems. The E19 was completely closed in the direction of Breda. Authorities are assessing the situation and working to clear the wreckage. Due to the severity of the crash, officials warn that the cleanup will take a long time.

How is traffic affected by the fuel spill on the E19?

One lane of the motorway has reopened, allowing some cars to pass. Authorities advise drivers heading to the Netherlands to find alternative routes. One option is to exit at Loenhout, use local roads, and rejoin the E19 at Meer. Another alternative is to take the A12 through Bergen-op-Zoom. 

Officials have indicated that delays are expected to continue for an extended period. They urge drivers to follow traffic updates and allow extra travel time while cleanup crews work to fully reopen the motorway.

Emergency teams are also dealing with the large fuel spill from the tanker, which was carrying diesel. Approximately 20,000 litres of fuel leaked due to the accident. Stijn Van Tichelt from the fire department stated,

“The load was diesel and was partly lost. We have dammed the canal to limit the pollution.” 

Environmental experts warn that the spill poses a significant risk, and teams are working quickly to contain and clean it. The crash also damaged the truck and three bridge pillars. The Roads and Traffic Agency is inspecting the bridge to determine if it remains structurally safe. 

“The work will partly overlap with the morning rush hour.”

Stijn Van Tichelt from the fire brigade

Officials have highlighted that clearing the wreckage and addressing environmental damage on the E19 will take considerable time. Stijn Van Tichelt explained,

“Step one is towing the tanker.”

He added that once the truck is removed, the next step will be cleaning up pollution in the canal. 

Authorities anticipate that the cleanup operation will take several hours, leading to ongoing traffic delays and lane closures for drivers heading to Breda. They are urging motorists to remain patient, follow detour routes, and stay updated on traffic conditions while crews work to restore safety on the road.