UPDATE: Tractor-trailer hauling garbage overturns, catches fire on I-80 in Warren County; driver injured
ALLAMUCHY TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — A tractor-trailer hauling garbage overturned and caught fire on Interstate 80 westbound in Allamuchy Township late Tuesday night, leaving the driver with minor injuries and prompting a hazardous materials response after diesel fuel and oil leaked onto the roadway, according to New Jersey State Police.
The crash occurred at 10:52 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, near milepost 18.6, State Police spokesman Sgt. 1st Class Charles Marchan said.
According to a preliminary investigation, the tractor-trailer was traveling westbound when the driver lost directional control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn.
Following the crash, diesel fuel and oil began leaking from the tractor-trailer, and the cab became fully engulfed in flames, Marchan said.
Firefighters responded to the scene and extinguished the fire while hazardous materials personnel worked to contain and clean up the spill.
The driver sustained minor injuries, according to State Police. The Allamuchy-Green First Aid Squad provided medical care at the scene.
Fire departments from Green Township and Hope Township assisted by supplying additional water to firefighters battling the blaze. Hazardous materials personnel also responded to assist with the cleanup.
The crash prompted the closure of Interstate 80 westbound at Exit 19 as emergency crews worked to extinguish the fire, address the spill and clear the overturned tractor-trailer.
All westbound lanes reopened at approximately 6 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4.
State police said the crash remains under investigation, and no additional information was immediately available.
This story has been updated to include additional information provided by New Jersey State Police.
