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Jackknifed Big Rig Leaking Fuel Triggers Massive 680 Backup

FREMONT (CBS SF) -- A big rig jackknifed and began leaking fuel early Monday, forcing the shutdown of all northbound lanes of Interstate Highway 680 just outside of the Fremont city limits, authorities said.

The California Highway Patrol said the collision was first reported at 1:48 a.m. near Vargas Road. The big rig and three other vehicles -- including another big rig -- were involved in the crash.

The heavily damaged big rig tanker began leaking 3800 gallons of fuel, triggering a hazmat situation and shutting down all northbound lanes. While vehicles are being diverted off the highway in Fremont, northbound lanes of the busy freeway are at a complete standstill.

680 Sunol Big-Rig Ax
The ramp from North Mission Boulevard to northbound Interstate 680 in Fremont was closed after a big-rig jackknifed several miles away near Vargas Road, September 16, 2019. (CBS)

The CHP said minor injuries were reported and suggested for commuters to take Interstate Highway 880 as an alternate.

As of 7 a.m., more than five hours after the crash was first reported, all northbound lanes of I-680 remained closed. Shortly before 9 a.m., two northbound lanes were reopened.

Just in time for the afternoon commute, all lanes were reopened at Vargas around 3:20 p.m.

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