Sleeping While Fueling, Faulty Pump Cause Large Diesel Spill in Cheyenne

Cheyenne Fire Rescue says a driver who fell asleep while fueling up coupled with a faulty pump handle that failed to automatically shut off caused a large diesel spill in northwest Cheyenne early Sunday morning.

75-100 Gallons of Diesel Spill

Deputy Chief Andrew Dykshorn says crews were called to the Sinclair Gas Station at 600 Vandehei Ave. at 1:23 a.m. for a spill of about 75 to 100 gallons of diesel, with the fuel running west down the gutter toward Evers Boulevard.

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Dykshorn says crews were able to quickly contain, divert, and absorb the fuel before it spilled over into a nearby storm sewer drain.

He says additional absorbent material was used in the gutter leading back up Vandehei Avenue toward the gas station, and Cheyenne Street and Alley assisted with a sand truck to absorb the material until it could be removed.

"The crew’s immediate actions and being able to work as a team with Street and Alley personnel helped to alleviate the immediate threat," said Dykshorn.

"We always ask people to turn off their engine, stay outside their vehicles to monitor the pump, not smoke, and reduce static electricity discharge around your vehicle while fueling," he added. "Please notify the attendant immediately of any spill that occurs if one is available, and if not, call 911."

Follow-Up Investigation

Dykshorn says the driver left the scene before CFR's arrival, and a follow-up investigation and communication are occurring with the gas station.