I-10 Reopens Near Crowley After 18-Wheeler Flips, Bursts Into Flames
CROWLEY, La. — Interstate 10 is back open in Acadia Parish following a dramatic commercial vehicle crash Sunday that shut down the eastbound lanes near Crowley and left an 18-wheeler heavily damaged by fire.
Louisiana State Police Troop I reported the crash on August 30 near mile marker 79, just before the Crowley exit. The wreck initially caused a complete blockage of I-10 East, forcing authorities to divert traffic off the interstate at Exit 76 while emergency crews responded.
The roadway has since reopened, but photos and video shared from the scene show just how serious the crash was. The truck overturned across the interstate and caught fire, leaving behind extensive damage.
Despite the truck's condition, one witness says the driver managed to escape with only a minor injury.
Witness Says Driver Kicked Out Windshield To Escape
Debbie Coriell Kelly, who identified herself as a witness to the crash, said the truck appeared to suffer a blown steer tire before leaving the roadway and entering the median.
According to Kelly, the driver then veered back toward the roadway in an apparent attempt to avoid going off the overpass. The truck flipped and quickly caught fire.
Kelly said the driver was able to kick out the windshield and escape from the burning truck. She said he walked away with what appeared to be only a scratch on his leg.
Her account has not been independently confirmed by Louisiana State Police, and authorities had not released details on the driver’s condition in the initial traffic advisory.
Photos And Drone Video Show Extensive Damage
J.C. Webb also shared photos and drone footage from the crash scene on Facebook, showing the burned-out remains of the truck and damage around the crash site.
The images show significant fire damage and apparent damage to a concrete barrier along the interstate.
The extent of any damage to the interstate infrastructure was not immediately clear. Motorists should be aware that additional inspections or repairs could be necessary following a crash of this magnitude.
What Louisiana State Police Initially Reported
State Police said both eastbound lanes were closed following the crash as emergency personnel and crews worked at the scene. Drivers were diverted from I-10 at Exit 76 and warned to expect delays.
The interstate has since reopened to traffic.
Additional information about the cause of the crash, the driver’s official condition, and any damage to the roadway or barrier could be released as authorities continue their investigation.
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Gallery Credit: Sarah Jones
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