On May 29, 2026, at approximately 1:00 p.m., an officer on patrol identified a hazardous materials (Hazmat) situation in the area of Petaluma Boulevard North near Auto Center Drive.
The officer located animal byproducts and blood in the number two eastbound lane of travel on Petaluma Boulevard North. Recognizing the potential hazard, the officer promptly closed the affected portion of the roadway to ensure public safety and allow for an appropriate response.
The Petaluma Fire Department was immediately requested to respond and assist with the assessment and mitigation of the hazard.
Through coordination with nearby businesses, it was later determined that a truck accelerating from a nearby traffic signal had caused debris to spill from an attached trailer, resulting in the animal byproducts being deposited onto the roadway. There is no indication that a traffic collision contributed to the incident.
The responsible business was contacted and responded to the scene to assist with cleanup efforts. The Petaluma Police Department would also like to thank Animal Control and Petaluma Public Works for their assistance in coordinating a safe and efficient cleanup.
The incident is being investigated as a Hazmat-related case. This is an ongoing investigation, and the involved business is cooperating with the investigation.
Despite the unusual nature of the incident, the prompt actions of the responding officer and the coordinated interagency response helped ensure the situation was addressed safely and efficiently.
Media inquiries may be directed to Lieutenant Matthew Parnow at [email protected] or phone 707-778-4372. Case number 26-1924.
