Lake Station, IN — A gravel truck driver tragically lost their life after a fiery crash on a highway in Northwest Indiana on Monday afternoon. The truck slammed into a median wall, caught fire, and became engulfed in flames, resulting in the driver’s death.
The driver’s identity has not been released as of yet.
Crash Details and Response
The incident occurred around 4 p.m. on Monday on I-80/94 at the 13-mile marker, approximately one mile east of the I-65 interchange, according to Indiana State Police.
Police say the truck was traveling eastbound in the right lane when, for reasons still under investigation, it veered left into the median wall and struck an overhead signpost.
“The crash caused the truck to burst into flames, trapping the driver inside the cab,” officials said.
The truck’s trailer also crossed the median wall and landed in the westbound lanes, causing further traffic disruption.
Firefighting Efforts and Discovery of Victim
Fire crews worked quickly to put out the flames, while first responders discovered the body of the driver inside the cab. The Lake County Coroner was called to the scene but has yet to identify the driver.
The crash also involved burning oil, which drained into the sewer system of the interstate, prompting the call of the Indiana Department of Emergency Management to assist with the situation.
“The presence of burning oil in the sewer system posed additional hazards, requiring immediate attention from emergency teams,” officials added.
Traffic Disruptions
Traffic was restricted on both eastbound and westbound lanes near the crash site, with vehicles passing on the right shoulder. As of 7 p.m., traffic delays and restrictions were still in effect as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the cause of the crash.
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