Diesel Spill Near Big M Prompts Coordinated Cleanup in Oswego

OSWEGO – Firefighters and city crews worked to contain a diesel fuel spill near Big M Supermarket on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, as heavy rain carried fuel toward storm drains that discharge into the Oswego River, according to the Oswego Fire Department.

The department responded at approximately 9:20 a.m. to the area of West First and West Utica streets, where firefighters found an extensive trail of diesel fuel.

Firefighters deployed absorbent materials, containment booms and specialized storm drain covers to keep fuel from entering the stormwater system. The department said its firefighters are cross-trained as hazardous materials technicians. Additional resources were requested from the Oswego County Hazardous Materials Team because of the extent of the spill and the weather conditions.

The City of Oswego Department of Public Works closed portions of West First and West Second streets between Utica and Mohawk streets during cleanup operations and used street-sweeping equipment to help treat the affected roads.

City Code Enforcement and Wastewater personnel provided technical assistance with the stormwater drainage system, while the Oswego Police Department assisted with the investigation.

The fire department said the source of the spill was identified as a commercial vehicle with a reported fuel leak. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation was notified and will provide additional oversight and follow-up, according to the release.

Responding agencies established containment measures, treated affected roadways and collected contaminated absorbent materials, which were secured pending proper disposal. The release did not specify the amount of fuel spilled or whether any reached the river.

Fire Chief Paul Conzone praised the coordinated response and said crews recognized the urgency posed by the heavy rain and the potential for fuel to enter storm drains.

“Protecting our community and our environment requires this type of coordination, and I am extremely proud of everyone involved,” Conzone said.

The department thanked Public Works, Oswego police, city Wastewater and Code Enforcement personnel, the county Hazardous Materials Team, Oswego County 911 and DEC for their assistance.