On Friday, July 19, at approximately 7:45 p.m., a truck tractor semi-trailer caught fire on State Highway 329 northwest of Rankin, Texas. The trailer was carrying UN3332, a radioactive material containing Cesium-137.
The Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Radiation/Nuclear Detection Unit, Upton County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Transportation, and other local agencies responded to the incident. Local authorities closed the road immediately to manage the situation and ensure safety.
DPS Corporal Scott Keane used a radiation detection system to screen the area, finding it clear of radiation. Corporals Keane and Dustin Henderson then performed radiation contamination surveys on first responders using handheld equipment. After securing the scene and confirming safety, the company was permitted to transport the radioactive material back to its facility.
The road was reopened to traffic around 11 p.m.
About DPS’ Radiation/Nuclear Detection Unit
DPS’ Radiation/Nuclear Detection Unit is housed under the Texas Highway Patrol and is made up of eight commissioned personnel who have advanced training in the field. The eight personnel are stationed throughout the state. The unit includes six field corporals who have specialized radiation/nuclear detection technology in their vehicles allowing them to respond to emergency situations as needed.
