Emergency crews in Huntington are working to contain a diesel spill that was discovered Friday morning in the Little River, which runs through the heart of downtown Huntington. The spill has prompted immediate action from local authorities and state agencies to address the situation and minimize any environmental impact.
Diesel and an Unknown Substance in the River
According to Huntington Mayor Richard Strick, the spill includes not only diesel but also another substance that has yet to be identified. Although initial reports suggest the unknown substance could be gasoline, officials are still waiting for confirmation.
“The situation is still unfolding, but we do have diesel in the water along with another substance we’re trying to pinpoint,” Mayor Strick said during a press briefing. The spill has raised concerns for local wildlife, and crews are focusing on stopping the spread of the contaminants in the river.
Working to Trace the Source
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is working closely with Huntington’s emergency response team to address the situation. Mayor Strick emphasized that while the cleanup process is ongoing, finding the source of the spill is a top priority.
“The timetable is unclear right now,” Strick added. “We want to make sure that this issue is resolved, and the fuel source is traced back to where it came from. We’re not going to rush it until we’re certain it’s fully cleaned up.”
Drinking Water Not Affected
In good news for the city’s residents, Mayor Strick confirmed that no residences are expected to be impacted by the spill, as Huntington’s drinking water comes from deep water wells located outside the affected area. While the spill may have some environmental consequences for the river and its surrounding areas, the safety of the city’s water supply remains intact.
Ongoing Efforts
The response team remains active in the cleanup efforts, with the hope that the situation can be brought under control soon. However, officials have stressed the importance of ensuring the source of the spill is fully identified and that any potential risks are thoroughly addressed.
