INSTITUTE, W.Va. (WCHS) — UPDATED – 4:10 p.m., 6/3/26
A tanker truck carrying diphenylmethane diisocyanate overturned on Interstate 64 in Kanawha County Wednesday afternoon, prompting a multi-agency emergency response.
The crash occurred at mile marker 48 near Institute, leading to the closure of eastbound lanes between Institute and Dunbar. Traffic is being diverted off the Institute exit.
Authorities said the chemical, used in polyurethane manufacturing, poses potential health risks if ingested. Emergency responders are assessing whether any material has reached the Kanawha River.
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) is on-site and coordinating clean-up with local first responders and environmental contractors. Containment measures are in place to prevent further leakage.
The driver was transported to CAMC General Hospital, but their condition remains unspecified.
UPDATED 2 p.m., 6/3/26
Emergency crews are currently working to clear the crash site on Interstate 64, where the tanker overturned earlier in the afternoon.
Authorities reported the crash at 12:30 p.m. Multiple first responders, including the Charleston Fire Department's hazmat team, are involved in the clean-up efforts.
Eastbound traffic was previously disrupted due to another incident near the Fort Hill Bridge in Charleston, which involved a tractor trailer losing its load.
This story will be updated as new details become available.