Highway 17 near Pembroke, Ontario, has reopened nearly 24 hours after a tanker truck carrying jet fuel caught fire on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The tanker was en route to Garrison Petawawa when the incident occurred, as confirmed by local authorities.
Details of the Incident
The fire broke out on a stretch of Highway 17, prompting a full closure of the roadway for safety reasons. Emergency crews responded swiftly to contain the blaze, which involved a tanker truck loaded with jet fuel. The closure lasted approximately 24 hours, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area.
Michael Yeas, a local resident, captured a photo of the scene showing the tanker engulfed in flames. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Impact on Traffic
The highway closure affected commuters and transport between Pembroke and surrounding areas. Detours were set up to redirect traffic, but delays were inevitable. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) managed the scene and coordinated the reopening.
Safety Measures
Authorities emphasized the importance of safe transport of hazardous materials. The incident highlights risks associated with fuel transportation and the need for stringent safety protocols. Investigations are ongoing to determine if any regulations were violated.
The highway was fully reopened by the evening of May 7, 2026, after cleanup and inspection confirmed it was safe for travel.
