A tractor-trailer crash led to a dangerous chemical spill that took place on Aiken County roadway on 6th May,2025. This incident forced the authorities to shut down the roadway for several hours. Local emergency services, hazmat teams, and state transportation officials initiated a quick and coordinated response to manage the incident. 

 

Who Was Affected? 

Michael Hargrove, a 43-year-old driver from Augusta, Georgia, was operating the single tractor-trailer. He was transporting industrial chemicals (Methyl Acetate) for delivery to a manufacturing facility in Columbia. Hargrove sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the crash. 

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), Aiken County Emergency Management, local hazmat crews, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol, which conducted the crash investigation. The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) assessed the environmental risk. 

 

Details of the Incident 

At approximately 4:38 pm on 6th May,2025, a tractor-trailer drifted off the eastbound lanes of Interstate 20 near mile marker 22. Initial reports suggest the truck jerked to avoid an animal on the road, causing it to overturn and rupture one of its chemical containers. 

The truck was carrying several drums of hazardous materials (Methyl Acetate). After this impact, some containers were breached, leaking chemicals onto the roadway and into a nearby ditch. 

Authorities quickly shut down both directions of I-20 between exits 21 and 25 to contain the spill and protect motorists. Hazmat teams arrived shortly after and began containment procedures, while a shelter-in-place advisory was issued for nearby residents due to fumes released in the area. 

 

When Did It Occur? 

The crash took place on May 6 at 4:38 p.m. Emergency services arrived within 15 minutes. Cleanup operations lasted most of the night. Interstate 20 reopened at 5:30 a.m. on May 7. One lane of Columbia Highway remained closed until 11:50 a.m. Authorities confirmed the reopening in an official statement late Friday evening, noting that air quality levels had returned to safe thresholds and all hazardous materials had been successfully removed. 

 

Incident Timing 

The accident took place on Interstate 20 that is a major east-west route. It passes through Aiken County. The specific location was near mile marker 22, just outside the town of Graniteville, a small community known for its residential areas and industrial presence. 

Due to the proximity of the crash site to residential neighborhoods and businesses, authorities were particularly cautious in their response. The nearest homes were evacuated as a precaution, while residents within a one-mile radius were asked to stay indoors with windows closed for several hours. 

 

The Reasons Behind it 

Initial findings indicate that the crash was caused by the driver’s evasive action. Hargrove reported attempting to avoid hitting a deer that suddenly appeared in the roadway. The sharp swerve caused the vehicle to lose balance and overturn. Although the driver had years of experience, authorities noted that the combination of darkness, speed, and the truck’s heavy load made it difficult to maintain control. 

Investigation by the Highway Patrol officers is still continuing. They are reviewing dashcam footage and skid marks to confirm the driver’s account. There is no suspicion of alcohol or drug impairment at this time. 

 

Chemical Details and Containment 

The chemical spill was complicated by the nature of the materials involved. Methyl Acetate is a highly flammable, colorless liquid with a fruity odor. Hazmat teams quickly identified and contained the substances. The cleanup process was meticulous to ensure no long-term environmental damage. 

Officials confirmed that no water systems were contaminated, and air quality readings had returned to normal. Soil near the spill site is still being tested, but early indications show that the containment berms and absorbent materials prevented widespread contamination. 

 

Community Impact and Response 

Despite the challenges, officials praised the swift and cooperative response from all agencies involved. Sheriff’s deputies helped reroute traffic to reduce congestion. While residents expressed concern on local forums, they were largely appreciative of the timely information and protective measures. 

No other injuries were reported, and the truck driver has been released from Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The logistics company issued a statement expressing relief that no serious injuries occurred and pledged full cooperation with environmental and transportation authorities. 

 

Conclusion 

This incident highlights the potential dangers of transporting hazardous materials and the importance of preparedness among both drivers and emergency responders. Authorities indicated they will review protocols and response times to improve safety measures. In the meantime, traffic on I-20 has returned to normal.