CFR responds to fuel spill on Vandehei Avenue

Published on March 03, 2025

Cheyenne Fire Rescue responded to a report of a large fuel spill at 600 Vandehei Ave. early Sunday morning.

Four apparatus responded to a spill of about 75-100 gallons of diesel fuel at 1:23 a.m. on March 2 with the fuel running down the gutter toward the intersection of Vandehei and Evers Boulevard. Crews were able to quickly contain, divert, and absorb the fuel before it spilled over into a nearby storm sewer drain. Additional absorbent material was used in the gutter leading back up Vandehei toward the gas station.

Cheyenne Street and Alley assisted with a sand truck to absorb the material until it could be removed. The quick actions and proper application of the sand allowed City personnel to mitigate harmful effects on the immediate environment.

“The crew’s immediate actions and being able to work as a team with Street and Alley personnel helped to alleviate the immediate threat,” Deputy Chief Andrew Dykshorn said. “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. Please notify the attendant immediately of any spill that occurs if one is available, and if not, call 911.”

Cheyenne Fire Rescue strives to protect life and property along with the environment. Street and Alley crews removed the contaminated absorbent and sand.

The cause of the spill was determined to be a driver who fell asleep while fueling a vehicle coupled with a faulty pump handle that failed to automatically shut off. The driver had left the scene prior to the arrival of CFR personnel. Follow-up investigation and communication are occurring with the business.