News Summary
A fuel truck accident in Graniteville, SC, resulted in a bridge collapse on I-20. The incident led to two injuries but no fatalities. Firefighters battled the ensuing blaze and the bridge was declared a total loss, causing significant traffic disruptions. Cleanup efforts are underway as authorities prioritize reopening the interstate for normal traffic flow.
Graniteville, South Carolina
A fuel truck accident early Saturday morning led to a significant bridge collapse on I-20 in Aiken County, resulting in two injuries but fortunately no fatalities. The incident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. on June 14, 2025, when the truck, loaded with 8,500 gallons of gasoline, crashed under the Old Vaucluse Road Bridge.
Upon impact, the truck caught fire, prompting an immediate response from local fire crews from nine different fire departments. Firefighters battled the blaze using around 10,000 gallons of water. Despite their swift efforts, the bridge could not withstand the fire and collapsed onto the interstate shortly after firefighting operations commenced.
Two individuals sustained injuries in the incident and were subsequently transported to Wellstar Augusta for medical treatment. Although specific details regarding their injuries remain undisclosed, authorities confirmed that there were no fatalities resulting from the crash.
The cause of the fuel truck’s collision is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol, as officials seek to determine the factors leading to the accident. Following inspections, the Old Vaucluse Road Bridge has been declared a total loss, prompting immediate action for cleanup and demolition.
In response to the urgent situation, an emergency contract has been established with United Infrastructure to commence cleanup efforts as soon as the fire was under control. South Carolina Secretary of Transportation, Justin Powell, has emphasized the priority of reopening I-20 to the traveling public, with the goal of resuming normal traffic flow by the early part of next week.
Meanwhile, traffic conditions have drastically changed as I-20 is currently closed in both directions. The closure extends from Bettis Academy Road to Edgefield Highway, leading to significant disruptions. Eastbound traffic is being diverted at Exit 6, while westbound traffic is being redirected at Exit 18. Travelers utilizing local roads can expect a notable decrease in speed, with posted limits reduced to between 40-55 mph, in stark contrast to the interstate’s typical 70-80 mph speeds.
Authorities are advising drivers to exercise caution and patience as they navigate the detour route, particularly near first responders still active at the scene. Updates and further details regarding detours and ongoing road closures will be communicated through social media channels managed by local first responders and the South Carolina Department of Transportation.
The Old Vaucluse Road Bridge’s collapse not only impacts local traffic but also may take several months to resolve. The state’s transportation department is aware of the potential for extended traffic congestion as they work diligently to assess and restore safe routes for the public. Motorists are encouraged to stay informed and plan alternate travel routes to avoid delays in the meantime.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tractor-Trailer Accident Causes Overpass Collapse in Aiken
Fuel Truck Fire Causes Bridge Collapse in Aiken County
Massive Gasoline Truck Crash Causes Fire and Bridge Collapse
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Fiery Tanker Crash
- Wikipedia: Bridges in the United States
- WFXG: Bridge a Total Loss
- Google Search: I-20 accidents
- WBTV: Tanker Crash
- Google Scholar: Traffic Accidents
- WLTX: I-20 Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Laws
- WRDW: Truck Crash Update
- Google News: Tanker Crash
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
