Driver Dies In Colorado Tanker Truck Explosion

BAILEY, Colo. (AP) -- A tractor-trailer carrying 9,000 gallons of gasoline overturned and exploded near Bailey on Thursday, killing the 23-year-old driver, the State Patrol said.

The accident closed U.S. Highway 285 in both directions for at least three hours, patrol Sgt. Martin Petrik said. A one-acre grass fire started nearby but was quickly contained.

``We believe that the vehicle was traveling too fast for the curve in the roadway,'' Petrik said. The driver's name was not released pending notification of his family.

The accident occurred around 1 p.m. two miles south of Bailey, 45 miles southwest of Denver. Firefighters decided to allow the fire to burn out, Petrik said.

The crash was near the North Fork of the South Platte River. Denver Water officials said they believed the water supply was still safe.

The truck was owned by Iowa Tank Lines, Petrik said.