Fuel spill triggers multiple crashes, delays on Beltway in Montgomery County – WTOP News
A mechanical issue caused a tractor-trailer to spill fuel across the Inner Loop of the Capital Beltway, triggering a few multivehicle crashes and leading to major delays during the Monday afternoon commute, according to a spokesman for Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.
The fuel spill and subsequent collisions happened at around 3 p.m. on Interstate 495 eastbound, between University Boulevard and New Hampshire Avenue, in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Pete Piringer, the department’s spokesman, said the collisions may have involved as many as a dozen vehicles and around 20 people were evaluated by first responders for potential injuries.
Drivers are able to get past the scene but WTOP Traffic reporter Dave Dildine said significant delays remain Monday afternoon. According to Piringer, two lanes were blocked and the backup reached about 6 miles at 3:45 p.m.
Listen to WTOP Traffic for the latest on roadway impacts.
This is a developing story. Stay with WTOP for the latest.
Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.
© 2026 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.