ATTLEBORO — Firefighters and a regional hazardous materials team responded Thursday morning after two containers holding an unknown dark liquid were found on a sidewalk beneath an Interstate 295 overpass.
According to Attleboro Fire Chief Scott Lachance, at approximately 10:00 a.m. on March 12, 2026, the Attleboro Fire Department was dispatched to Clifton Street under the Interstate 295 overpass following a report of containers discovered on the sidewalk.
When firefighters arrived on scene, they located two five-gallon containers holding an unidentified dark substance. Crews also observed a foam-like material coming from the containers, raising concerns that a chemical reaction may have been occurring.
Chief Lachance said that as a precaution, a 300-foot section of Clifton Street was closed to traffic while crews evaluated the situation. The Attleboro Fire Department requested a Tier 1 hazardous materials response, and a Massachusetts Department of Fire Services hazmat team arrived at approximately 10:45 a.m.
Hazmat technicians collected samples from the containers and conducted testing to determine the nature of the substance. Initial testing indicated there was no immediate threat to the public. Further analysis determined the liquid was mineral oil consistent with hydraulic fluid.
“When these types of emergencies are reported, there is no immediate way to determine what chemical may be present or how it might react,” Attleboro Fire District Chief Michael Maitland said. “Containers holding unknown substances can pose significant health and fire hazards depending on their contents. We take these calls seriously to ensure the safety of the public and first responders.”
After the substance was determined not to be hazardous, the Attleboro Health Department coordinated the proper disposal of the material, Chief Lachance said.
No injuries were reported, and crews remained on scene until approximately 11:45 a.m.
“The Attleboro Fire Department reminds residents to dispose of chemicals and hazardous materials properly,” Chief Lachance said. “Communities across Massachusetts hold household hazardous waste collection days throughout the year to allow residents to safely dispose of these materials.”