What started as a regular weekday morning quickly turned chaotic near a Boeing site in St. Louis when a tanker truck released thousands of gallons of nitric acid into the surrounding area.
The unexpected chemical spill caused a wave of road closures and raised concerns for both public safety and environmental impact.
Mechanical Failure Unleashes Toxic Spill
Around 9 a.m. Central Time, a mechanical issue with the truck led to the release of over 4,500 gallons of nitric acid—a highly corrosive and dangerous chemical widely used in industrial manufacturing.
The spill happened on McDonnell Boulevard, just steps away from Boeing’s facility and close to Lambert International Airport.
Yellow Cloud Triggers Alarm
Nitric acid, known for its strong oxidizing properties, can form a yellowish cloud when released into the air.
Several people in the area reported seeing that ominous discoloration over the Boeing site, sparking fears about possible exposure.
The chemical is extremely harmful when inhaled and can seriously damage the lungs, even in small quantities.
Road Closures and Public Warnings Issued
As a result of the spill, police immediately closed a stretch of McDonnell Boulevard—between Lindbergh Boulevard and Byassee Drive—right next to the busy airport, which handles over 41,000 travelers daily.
The Hazelwood Police Department urged drivers and residents to steer clear of the area while crews worked to contain and clean up the scene.
Firefighters Battle Hazards in Scorching Conditions
Hazelwood Fire Chief Dan Luley confirmed that emergency crews would be on-site for several hours.
Firefighters, already dealing with sweltering heat, had to suit up in full protective gear to safely approach the highly toxic liquid.
Despite the severity of the situation, no injuries have been reported.
Boeing Responds to the Incident
In response to growing public concern, a Boeing spokesperson reassured the community that employee safety was their top priority.
“The Hazelwood Fire Department and Boeing responded to an incident outside one of our facilities, and the situation was safely resolved,” the statement read.
What’s Next?
Cleanup operations are ongoing, and environmental officials are expected to assess any longer-term effects the chemical spill may have on the air and nearby soil.
For now, residents and travelers are advised to remain cautious and follow local updates for any changes in road access or safety guidelines.