The accident, reported at the South Service Road at 12:05 p.m., began with a crash between a Chevy Malibu and a tow truck, according to East Rutherford Police Captain J. Yannacone. The impact set off a chain reaction involving a Toyota Tundra pickup and a dump truck.
Three lanes of Route 3 were initially closed, but a diesel fuel leak from the tow truck forced a full road closure. Traffic was rerouted to the South Service Road while Bergen County HAZMAT crews worked to address the spill.
Emergency responders, including the East Rutherford Fire Department and Holy Name EMS, were on the scene. The sole reported injury, a complaint of pain from an occupant of the Tundra, was minor, with the individual declining medical treatment.
Nicks Towing removed two damaged vehicles and assisted with the cleanup, applying absorbent material to the affected roadway. NJ DOT also responded to help manage traffic and closures.
The accident remains under investigation, and no summonses have been issued. By late afternoon, the roadway was reopened.
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