MAY 2 MEDIA RELEASE, 7:26 P.M.__On May 2, 2025, at 11:20 a.m., the Southeast Hardin Northwest Union Joint Fire District was dispatched to a report of paint in the roadway at the intersection of Main Street and Taylor Street in Mount Victory, Ohio.

Rescue 24 arrived on the scene at 11:25 a.m. and attempted to identify the substance. Additional assistance was requested from the Hardin County Hazmat Team, the Kenton Fire Department, the Ohio Department of Transportation, and the Hardin County Emergency Management Agency.

Upon further investigation, it was determined that the chemical in question was Atrazine, which is used in agriculture. Chemtrec was contacted, and their recommendations were followed.

The area was isolated with the help of the Ridgeway Fire Department and the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office. Initial attempts were made to contain the spill; however, due to heavy rain, the chemical entered the village storm drains and flowed into Wildcat Creek.

Floating chemical absorbent booms were placed downstream prior to the rainfall to mitigate some of the release. Fortunately, no one was injured as a result of the spill.

While the fire department made every effort to limit runoff, some was unavoidable due to the heavy rainfall. The EPA is currently on site and has stated that there is no risk to human health. A hazmat cleaning team is in the process of removing the substance.

Unfortunately, the roadway will show some staining for some time.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is aware of the potential impact on wildlife and is monitoring the situation.

The Southeast Hardin Northwest Union Joint Fire District would like to thank everyone for their patience and the support of our neighboring departments and agencies.

Nathan A Hampton, Chief
Southeast Hardin Northwest Union JFD.
212 South Wheeler Street 
Mount Victory Ohio 43340
567-674-6505