News Summary
A gasoline tanker crash on I-20 in Aiken County caused the collapse of the Old Vaucluse Road bridge, resulting in significant emergency response and traffic disruptions. The crash, involving a tractor-trailer and a Dodge Charger, incurred injuries to both drivers and led to a swift evacuation and reopening of the highway. The South Carolina Department of Transportation has plans for reconstruction, taking up to a year, as investigations into the accident continue.
Aiken County, South Carolina – Overpass Collapses After Gasoline Tanker Crash on I-20
A fiery crash involving a gasoline tanker on Interstate 20 (I-20) in Aiken County has led to the collapse of the Old Vaucluse Road bridge, causing significant disruption and emergency response efforts. The accident took place around 3:40 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, prompting both a response from local fire departments and extensive traffic detours in the area.
The incident involved a 2019 International tractor-trailer gasoline tanker and a 2023 Dodge Charger, both traveling eastbound at the time of the collision. Reports indicate that the Dodge Charger collided with the gasoline tanker, resulting in a fire that produced flames shooting into the sky. The tanker was carrying approximately 8,500 gallons of gasoline, significantly contributing to the fire’s intensity.
In the aftermath of the accident, the South Carolina Highway Patrol confirmed that both vehicles had only one driver each, and both sustained injuries. They were promptly transported to local hospitals for treatment; however, their current conditions remain unknown. The violent crash caused the bridge to collapse onto the interstate, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Emergency Response and Road Closures
Emergency services quickly mobilized, with nine fire departments and around 35 personnel responding to the scene to manage the blaze. The firefighters utilized roughly 10,000 gallons of water to extinguish the flames. Following inspections, the bridge was deemed a total loss, necessitating a reconstruction effort from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT).
In the wake of the crash, I-20 was closed in both directions between mile markers 11 and 18, significantly affecting traffic flow and requiring detours for motorists. Crews worked throughout the night to demolish the remains of the damaged bridge and mill and repave sections of the interstate. The hard work paid off, as I-20 reopened to traffic by Sunday afternoon—approximately 36 hours after the incident.
Future Plans for Reconstruction
The SCDOT has announced plans to reconstruct the Old Vaucluse Road bridge, which is expected to take between nine months and a year to complete. To expedite the process, an emergency contract has already been awarded for the reconstruction. Local authorities have advised drivers to exercise caution on detour routes, as speed limits may differ from interstate speeds to surface road limits. Partial lane closures are anticipated during the reconstruction phase, but the SCDOT aims to avoid a full closure of I-20.
Investigation Underway
As of now, the cause of the crash remains under investigation. It is also unclear if any charges will be filed against the involved parties. Authorities are working diligently to gather all necessary information regarding the events that led to this accident.
This incident was reportedly unrelated to another ongoing investigation involving a separate case concerning an infant’s death at an unlicensed day-care facility in Columbia County.
The situation surrounding the tanker crash has raised significant concerns about roadway safety and emergency preparedness, which local officials are taking seriously as they move forward with reconstruction efforts and inquiries into the incident.
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HERE Resources
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Interstate 20 Reopens After Bridge Collapse in Aiken County
Gasoline Tanker Crash Causes Bridge Collapse in Aiken County
Interstate 20 Reopens After Major Aiken County Accident
I-20 Reopens After Old Vaucluse Road Overpass Collapse
Bridge Collapse on I-20 Following Fuel Truck Accident in Aiken County
Tractor-Trailer Accident Causes Overpass Collapse in Aiken
Massive Gasoline Truck Crash Causes Fire and Bridge Collapse
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