UPDATE: Oct. 21, 12:41 p.m. – CBS3 is reporting that homes on two streets near the site of the crash and tanker truck fire have been evacuated.
Northbound and southbound lanes remain closed between the Lansdale and Mid-County exits. Towamencin Volunteer Fire Company posted detour routes while the turnpike is shut down.
Prior update follows…
UPDATE: Oct. 21, 11:47 a.m. - The tanker truck fire was preceded by a multi-vehicle crash, however there are conflicting reports regarding how many vehicles were involved, as well as their make and model.Crews were initially dispatched to the scene at 10:24 a.m. for a report of a vehicle fire with injuries and rescue. Arriving first responders found a tanker truck on the shoulder of the northbound lanes of the turnpike engulfed in flames with the driver trapped inside, with debris strewn across the roadway.
It’s currently unclear how the incident occurred or what transpired prior to the truck catching fire. More than a dozen area police departments, fire companies, EMS units and hazmat crews have been dispatched to the scene.
Sources tell North Penn Now one person sustained serious injuries including burns and wounds to their head. A medevac helicopter was reportedly placed on standby.
Radio chatter indicates the truck was carrying jet fuel, however we have been unable to confirm at this time.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area, as the turnpike is expected to be closed for a prolonged period.
This article will be updated.
See also:
Crews Respond to Multi-Vehicle Crash with Injuries and Entrapment on Bethlehem Pike Friday Evening
Truck Driver in Critical Condition Following Crash with Hazmat on 202 Parkway Wednesday Morning
Police Release Details of Crash that Forced Shutdown of Bethlehem Pike Tuesday Afternoon
Bethlehem Pike Shutdown After Dump Truck Pulls Down Wires in Lower Gwynedd
Teens Rescued After Getting Stuck in Elevator of Septa Parking Garage in Lansdale
