Tanker crash closes down both directions of US-6 outside of Helper

September 21, 2025
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By Aidan Mortensen | KOAL News | Photo courtesy of Layne Miller

At approximately 3:46 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, an emergency alert was issued in Carbon County warning residents that two semitrucks colliding had  created a rapidly spreading fire along US-6.

All residents within a half-mile radius were encouraged to evacuate the area.

First responders have worked tirelessly to halt the spread of the inferno, a task that is complicated by the presence of crude oil in the accident.

Travelers making their way through the area are being detoured through Spring Glen.

In an alert issued by the Utah Department of Transportation, the organization shared an update on the state of traffic: ”US-6 is closed in both directions in Helper. NB is closed at MP 236 (Spring Glen Rd) and SB at MP 232 (Main St). Drivers should use caution and follow posted detours. There is no estimate for clearance at this time.”

With oil from the accident potentially contaminating the Carbon Canal, the Carbon Canal Company is asking users to shut off sprinklers to help minimize the spread of the contamination. The company is working with law enforcement and HAZMAT units to address the issue.

Additionally, the Price/Wellington Canal has been ordered to shut off.

The transportation of crude oil through the area has continued to increase throughout the year. In July, the Bureau of Land Management approved the expansion of an oil transloading facility in Carbon County after an expedited review under President Trump’s “national energy emergency” declaration.

Also set to transport oil through the Castle Country soon is the Uinta Basin Railway, which won approval in the Supreme Court Case Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County, Colorado.

The incident is under active investigation. No further details have been released at this time.

*This story is breaking and may be updated.

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