Big Rig Diesel Spill Sends Cars Skidding on I‑5 Near French Camp

Thursday evening turned chaotic on southbound Interstate 5 near Matthews Road in French Camp, San Joaquin County, when a large tractor‑trailer ran over debris littered on the pavement. The impact ripped the truck’s fuel tank, dumping a slick of diesel across the roadway.

Within minutes, the sudden spill caused three passing vehicles to lose traction. Two of the cars careened off the road and tumbled down a nearby embankment. Fortunately, only one of the three suffered any noticeable damage, and, miraculously, no one was injured.

Caltrans crews rushed to the scene, blocking the lane and cleaning up the fuel while the California Highway Patrol directed traffic around the incident. Drivers were advised to use alternate routes while the spill was contained and the roadway restored.

“We’re grateful that no one was hurt,” a CHP spokesperson said, adding that the spill was cleared later that night. The incident did cause a temporary delay for commuters heading south, but traffic flow resumed once the cleanup was complete.

Authorities remind motorists to stay alert for unexpected hazards, especially after dark, and to report any debris or spills immediately. For real‑time traffic updates, check the KCRA traffic map or download the KCRA app.