Overturned semi leaking tar onto Eisenhower near Itasca

Emergency crews are on the scene of an overturned semi that is leaking what looks to be roofing tar on I-290 near Itasca.

Master Sgt. Ted Vernon of the Illinois State Police said the truck is flipped on its side near Mill Road, east of I-355, about 8:30 a.m.

He said it was unclear how the truck flipped over, or what the substance is leaking out of the truck.

"It looks to be like some sort of roofing tar, but we aren't entirely sure what it is," he said. "The fire department will be calling out a hazardous materials unit to determine what it might be and handle it safely."

The right, outbound lane of I-290 has been closed while crews work at the scene, he said.

Also, he added, the driver has been freed of the semi and is being taken to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.