Full Notification

Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose reports that the vehicle responsible for spilling oil along a three-mile stretch of the Ironbound Section last Tuesday has been identified and that its owner turned himself into the 3rd Precinct on Friday, October 18.

“We are grateful that the vehicle’s owner took responsibility for his actions,” Director Ambrose said. “I commend the members of the Newark Fire Division’s Haz-Mat Unit for their quick response and for seeking the assistance of our Essex County partners to ensure that the affected roadways were safe for drivers.”

The spill, which occurred at approximately 3:40 p.m., affected Stockton and Delancey streets; Adams and Thomas streets; and Wilson Avenue. A large coat of sand was used to cover the area to facilitate traffic flow.

After questioning the vehicle’s owner, 3rd Precinct detectives determined that this incident was accidental. The vehicle’s sight glass was damaged at the rear of the storage tank, causing the contents to spill out. The truck, used for recycling used cooking oil, has a 600-gallon storage capacity. After it was offloaded, it was determined that some 150 gallons had leaked onto city streets.

Reimbursement for the cleanup, including labor hours, will be sought by the Newark Fire Division’s Haz-Mat Unit through the truck owner’s insurance company. No summonses were issued.

Director Ambrose urges anyone with information about any suspicious or criminal activity to call the Department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.

Anonymous tips may also be made using the Police Division’s website at: www.newarkpd.org or through our Smartphone App available at iTunes and Google Play. Search Newark Police Division to download the App.