OLD ORCHARD BEACH, Maine — Hazmat crews responded to Old Orchard Beach Wednesday night after a chemical was discovered in a roadway close to downtown.
Old Orchard Street and Saco Avenue from Staples Street to Imperial Street were closed while crews responded to a report of smoke in the roadway around 8:30 p.m., Old Orchard police told NEWS CENTER Maine.
An investigation revealed the smoke to be coming from a jug of hydrochloric acid, which can be dangerous to inhale. Police said it is a commonly used substance.
Police told NEWS CENTER Maine they suspect the jug fell off a moving vehicle. The cause remains under investigation, but the Old Orchard Fire Department said it believes it was accidental.
A firefighter suffered injuries not considered life-threatening and was taken to a hospital. The firefighter has since been treated and released, according to the fire department.
Portions of Old Orchard Street and Saco Avenue were closed to ensure public safety during the incident. Those sections of road have since reopened.
