Semi-truck crash Indiana Toll Road
CHICAGO (CBS) — A UPS semi-truck drove off a bridge on the Indiana Toll Road and caught fire before falling into the Calumet River.
Indiana State Police said just after 2 a.m., the truck hit the Calumet River bridge and caught fire. CBS 2’s Kris Habermehl said the truck dropped in between the east and west lanes. As of 11 a.m., part of the truck detached and fell into the water.
Hammond fire and scuba crews were contacted because responders feared the driver, an Illinois resident, was in the river and possibly trapped in the cab. But he was soon found clinging to a bridge support where he was rescued and transported to St. Catherine’s Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Rescuers said he was disoriented.
Crews were working to ensure fuel was not spilled into the river.
Another part of the semi is being suspended by a crane.
The cause of the crash is unknown.
Eastbound lanes have reopened. Indiana police said westbound lanes reopen and traffic will be restricted to one lane. An hours-long recovery is expected.
UPS released the following statement:
“We are thankful our driver is safe and that no other vehicles were involved. We are working with responding authorities on this continuing investigation.”
