FREMONT COUNTY, COLO. -- The driver of a semi-tanker died Friday morning when his truck overturned and caught fire on Highway 50 near Salida, Colo.

Colorado State troopers are investigating the crash but said speed is a contributing factor.

They said the driver was headed east on Highway 50 near mile marker 228 when it overturned going around a bend to the left. Both the semi and tanker caught fire after the tanker ruptured, and the driver died on scene.

Emergency crews worked for hours to put out the fire and clean up spilled chemicals. Troopers said the chemicals flowed to the south side of the road, away from the Arkansas River, but Arkansas Head Waters officials are there to make sure the river isn't contaminated.

Highway 50 between Salida and Texas Creek, Colo. was closed from mile marker 223 to 229 and will remain closed until about 7 p.m. Friday. Drivers can use Cotopaxi and Highway 9 just east of Canon City as a detour.