Early this morning, D Shift from the Merrimack Fire Rescue Department was dispatched to the F.E. Everett Turnpike southbound near mile marker 16 for a reported tractor-trailer fuel leak. Upon arrival, crews discovered the vehicle had gone off the road, jumped the guardrail, and jackknifed, tearing one saddle tank from the truck and fully rupturing the other.

The accident resulted in an estimated 175–250 gallons of diesel fuel spilling along approximately 250 feet of roadway and entering a storm drain. Firefighters immediately deployed hazmat containment booms and absorbent pads to control the spill. Rescue 1 and Engine 2 were requested for support, along with Bedford Fire and Milford Fire, who provided additional hazmat resources.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), NH State Police, NH DOT, and D & R Towing and Recovery assisted on scene. Crews later discovered diesel had reached a retention pond about half a mile away, where further damming operations were conducted to contain the contamination.

Fire companies operated on scene for approximately 4.5 hours. NHDES will oversee the cleanup operation beginning October 31, 2025, deploying Clean Harbors to excavate contaminated soil and treat the affected pond. Thanks to the quick actions of Merrimack Fire Rescue, the spill was successfully contained, preventing any further downstream impact.