09/09/2026
****PRESS RELEASE****
Investigation into Roadway Spill in Southern Jasper County.
On September 5, 2026, at approximately 10:36 a.m., the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department received reports of a white truck leaking a yellow-colored liquid in the area of U.S. Highway 231 and County Road 300 South.
At approximately 11:00 a.m., deputies and supervisors arrived on scene and observed that the substance had been deposited along portions of US HWY 231 and Division Rd south to County Road 300 South. Investigators noted pools and puddles of what appeared to be processed soybean oil on the roadway, creating slick and hazardous driving conditions.
Appropriate agencies and personnel were contacted to assist with roadway cleanup efforts and temporary road closures.
During the investigation, deputies received information indicating that the vehicle involved had been traveling to Talbert Manufacturing in Rensselaer. Investigators also obtained video evidence related to the incident.
On September 6, 2026, investigators identified Justin DeJong, owner and operator of TDJ Transportation Inc., as the driver of the truck involved. DeJong self-reported and voluntarily met with investigators and stated that he had been transporting processed soybean oil intended for dust control on gravel lots.
According to DeJong, a bracket securing the truck’s rear pump assembly had broken, allowing the pump to shift and damage a valve that controlled the flow of oil. This mechanical failure resulted in the unintentional release of processed soybean oil on US HWY 231 from Division Rd. southbound to County Road 300 South. DeJong stated that he became aware of the leak upon turning onto County Road 300 South, at which time he stopped and closed a secondary valve to halt the spill before returning the truck to his business for repairs.
Investigators examined and photographed the truck at TDJ Transportation Inc., located in DeMotte. The vehicle had already been repaired prior to inspection.
As a result of the investigation, DeJong was advised that a citation for a leaking load would be issued in accordance with Indiana law. Additional follow-up by agencies such as the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) may occur.
This investigation is now completed on the Jasper County Sheriff’s Departments end and the report is available for release for those affected by the spill.
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department would like to thank all responding agencies and personnel who assisted with traffic control, roadway cleanup, and the investigation.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
