(OCALA, FL.) Jan. 29, 2025 - At 12:45 p.m. today, Ocala Fire Rescue was dispatched to a single-vehicle accident with possible entrapment on Blitchton Road and the I-75 North Ramp (Exit 354). Responding units included Engine 1, Tower 1, Rescue 6, Battalion Chief 11, the Deputy Chief, and a Safety Officer.

Upon arrival, crews found a semi-truck filled with produce that had overturned, resulting in a punctured saddle tank. The driver, the vehicle's sole occupant, had self-extricated before responders arrived. However, due to the precarious nature of the incident, the northbound on-ramp to I-75 was immediately blocked off by Tower 1.

Crews from Engine 1 and Tower 1 worked swiftly to address the fuel leak - which triggered a state warning point - while Rescue 6 assessed the driver's condition. The driver was transported to the hospital by Marion County Fire Rescue.

Crews used absorbent materials and sealing putty to contain an estimated 100 gallons of fuel spilled. A total of 30 bags of 40-pound absorbent bags were deployed from the hazardous material response unit. Additionally, a class D wrecker was requested to assist with lifting the semi-truck off its side.

Ocala Fire Rescue units cleared the scene at 2:26 p.m. The Ocala Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol, and Road Rangers also assisted with the response. As of 6:20 p.m., the northbound I-75 ramp remains closed.

Ocala Fire Rescue urges drivers to avoid the area and follow detour routes to ensure safety.