One direction of a major highway in western Hennepin County was closed well into the afternoon Thursday because of a diesel fuel spill blamed on a drowsy truck driver, officials said.
The location of the spill was Hwy. 12 between May Street and Baker Park Road, near Long Lake, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
The spill occurred about 7:50 a.m. It was cleaned up by midafternoon, allowing all lanes to reopen, said MnDOT spokesman Nick Carpenter.
The fuel came from a westbound dump truck that hit the center median after the driver fell asleep, said State Patrol Lt. Tiffani Schweigart.
The cleanup also slowed eastbound traffic, Schweigart said.
Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482
More From Star Tribune
More From Local
Local
Minnesota's graduation rates mostly flat in 2023 after pandemic rebound
Graduation rates dipped slightly for Black, Asian, Latino students and students learning English. Look up your school's results.
Minneapolis
Charges say man stole evidence from many vehicles in secured MPD forensic garage
Criminal complaint says suspect entered more than two dozen vehicles and stole evidence. Numerous cases are potentially affected, including at least one involving a homicide.
East Metro
Arne Carlson: Why wasn't public told sooner about Stillwater PFAS contamination?
The former governor says the delay in notifying residents about the contamination is "stunning," and calls on government officials to act.
St. Cloud
Soldier in St. Cloud woman's smuggling ring admits role in trafficking drugs from El Chapo's cartel
The ringleader has also pleaded guilty. Her father also participated in the enterprise along with other Minnesotans.
St. Paul
New surface parking lots in St. Paul would have to make room for EV chargers under proposed ordinance
The proposal aims to bring St. Paul closer to meeting climate policy targets and projected market demand for electric vehicles.