Newport, KY – A crash involving a car and a fuel tanker on Interstate-471 southbound caused a major fire and explosion Friday night, leading to lane closures.
The incident occurred around 10:10 p.m. near the Memorial Parkway exit. Authorities reported that the fuel tanker overturned, igniting fire that rapidly spread, prompting a large emergency response.
According to dispatch audio, the situation was urgent, with multiple agencies mobilized for assistance. Two children, ages 6 and 12, were transported to Cincinnati Children's Hospital with minor injuries. An adult female passenger also sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital, while the 47-year-old tanker driver was treated at the scene and subsequently released.
Witnesses reported chaotic scenes, describing multiple explosions and significant flames traveling through the highway's drainage system. Emergency responders assessed that no substantial damage occurred to surrounding infrastructure.
All lanes of I-471 remain closed as cleanup efforts continue. Northbound traffic is blocked between Alexandra Pike/US-27 and Memorial Parkway, while southbound lanes are closed from Exit 5 (Newport Bellevue) to Grand Avenue.
Inspectors are scheduled to evaluate the area Saturday. Governor Andy Beshear noted, “The interstate will remain closed in both directions until work is complete to ensure safety for drivers.” Campbell County Emergency Management, along with state highway officials, responded to the incident.