A tractor-trailer carrying at least 8,500 gallons of gasoline exploded on a Connecticut highway Thursday morning, News 8 Connecticut reported.
The explosion, which fortunately resulted in no deaths or serious injuries, was the result of a car crash, the outlet noted. (RELATED: Skier Killed After Attempting Risky Stunt Over Colorado Highway)
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection spokesperson Paul Copleman confirmed that two tractor-trailers and a passenger vehicle were involved in the fiery crash, according to News 8 Connecticut. The explosion resulted in both sides of the highway being shut down by authorities, the outlet reported.
“Traffic is really a nightmare down there,” Paul Rizzo, chief of Highway Operations, said during a press conference, the outlet reported. Democratic Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont shared a video and photos of the disaster site while noting that “[d]espite the dramatic scene, thankfully everyone involved is safe.”
Watch the scene from the fiery collision on I-95 at Exit 15 in this video. Despite the dramatic scene, thankfully everyone involved is safe.
➡️ Take a glimpse into the aftermath. Huge thanks to our first responders for ensuring everyone’s safety. pic.twitter.com/EOIk6m9VrK
— Governor Ned Lamont (@GovNedLamont) May 2, 2024
The inferno caught the attention of federal authorities as well. “Our highways team is working closely with Connecticut’s DOT [Department of Transportation] on the tanker fire that has closed I-95 in Norwalk. Please heed local authorities on detours and avoid the area if possible. Thank you to the first responders who are dealing with the fire and keeping other drivers safe,” Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg tweeted.
Our highways team is working closely with Connecticut’s DOT on the tanker fire that has closed I-95 in Norwalk. Please heed local authorities on detours and avoid the area if possible. Thank you to the first responders who are dealing with the fire and keeping other drivers safe.
— Secretary Pete Buttigieg (@SecretaryPete) May 2, 2024
Scott Hill, the chief engineer of Connecticut’s Department of Transportation, said that the overpass will remain closed until the damage could be fully assessed, CBS News reported.