Orange, Texas — Interstate 10 westbound in Orange was shut down Monday evening after a crash involving a hazardous materials spill, triggering a major traffic disruption and a prolonged cleanup operation near the 878-mile marker.
Crash Reported Monday Evening
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred at approximately 6:20 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, along Interstate Highway 10 westbound near mile marker 878.
Authorities said the collision involved a 2022 Toyota Camry and a 2020 Ram flatbed truck that was hauling two 250-gallon tanks containing a caustic alkali liquid. Both vehicles were traveling west when the crash occurred.
Hazardous Spill Forces Lane Closure
Preliminary findings indicate that one of the tanks ruptured during the crash, causing a hazardous chemical spill onto the roadway. Due to the nature of the material, all westbound lanes of I-10 were immediately shut down to protect motorists and emergency responders.
DPS confirmed that a specialized hazardous materials team was contacted to manage the spill and assess safety conditions. Cleanup efforts continued for several hours, contributing to the extended closure.
Cleanup Operations and Traffic Impact
A crew from Texas Department of Transportation was tasked with removing the spilled material and ensuring the roadway was safe to reopen.
A 12News crew at the scene reported that westbound lanes were expected to remain closed for an extended period, with traffic backing up in the area as crews worked to neutralize and clear the alkali substance.
Driver Conditions and Injuries
DPS identified the driver of the Ram flatbed truck as a 61-year-old man from Wharton, who was not injured in the crash.
The driver of the Toyota Camry, a 53-year-old man from Silsbee, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials described his injuries as non-life-threatening.
Motorists Urged to Avoid Area
Authorities urged drivers to avoid I-10 westbound near Orange and to prepare for significant delays. DPS recommended checking DriveTexas.org for the latest traffic updates and alternate route information before traveling through the area.
Investigation Ongoing
The crash remains under active investigation, and officials said additional details will be released as more information becomes available.
Conclusion
The hazardous materials spill caused by Monday evening’s crash led to a full shutdown of I-10 westbound in Orange, highlighting the serious safety challenges posed by chemical transport incidents on major highways. Cleanup and investigation efforts continued late into the night as crews worked to restore safe travel conditions.
Drivers who experienced delays or were impacted by the closure are encouraged to share their experiences in the comments below.
