Truck carrying explosives catches fire in Springfield quarry

A truck carrying an explosive blasting agent caught fire in a quarry Tuesday afternoon, resulting in the evacuation of nearby businesses and homes out of "an abundance of caution," according to a news release from the city of Springfield.

Officials with the Mine Institute say the situation is now contained within a 2,000-foot radius in western Springfield.

The release said the truck was working in a mine when it caught fire. The truck was carrying ANFO, or ammonium nitrate/fuel oil.

The Springfield Fire Department responded, evacuating seven employees and 17 others from nearby homes and businesses.

The release said the truck is continuing to burn as officials from the United States Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Institute arrive to monitor the situation and take lead on dealing with the incident.

The Springfield Police Department said just before 4 p.m. that officers were providing traffic control in the area, and traffic was blocked on Chestnut, Haseltine and Division Street.