Traffic was shut down in both directions on I-35 in Cooke County early Friday morning following a three-vehicle crash that killed one person.
The crash, involving a FedEx truck, a rock hauler, and a car, occurred about 20 miles south of the Oklahoma line, between Hockley and Valley View at about 7 a.m. The FedEx truck caught fire, and the driver of that vehicle died, FedEx has confirmed.
“Our thoughts are with all of those involved in this tragic accident. We are deeply saddened over the loss of our team member and extend our sincere sympathies to our colleague’s loved ones at this difficult time,” a FedEx spokesperson said in a statement, per WFAA. “Safety is our highest priority, and we are cooperating fully with the investigating authorities.”
The car was carrying medical waste that spilled onto the highway, which officials described as a “radioactive spill.” ABC KTEN reported that the substance that spilled out of the car was a radioactive medical dye.
Diesel and oil also spilled onto the highway as a result of the crash, according to KTEN. Hazmat crews were called to the scene to assess the situation.
Local officials said the cleanup could take hours, and they are asking travelers to avoid the area and find alternate routes.
