Driver killed after SUV strikes rear of tanker, engulfing in flames in New Jersey, police say
EDISON, New Jersey (WABC) -- One person was killed and another was injured after a massive fire engulfed part of a highway in Edison, New Jersey after a fuel tanker carrying over 8,000 gallons ignited.
Officials say a Volvo tractor pulling a fuel tanker was traveling north when a Jeep SUV struck the rear of the trailer. As a result, the fuel tanker and the Jeep became fully engulfed in flames.
The driver of the Jeep was killed. A passenger in the Jeep sustained serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.
A plume of flame and smoke could be seen billowing above the destroyed fuel tanker truck as crews worked to control the blaze.
"Emergency officials including Mayor Joshi are on scene. Mayor Joshi has been in touch with Governor Mikie Sherrill, Governor Sherrill's staff, and New Jersey's Office of Emergency Management," the Mayor's Office said in a statement.
Route 287 was closed in both directions by Exits 1 and 2 as emergency workers doused the flames.
"Route 27 between Vineyard and Bridge St are also shut down," Mayor Joshi said. "Traffic is being diverted to Rt 1."
Firefighters from mutual aid departments also assisted with fire suppression and traffic control efforts.
"I've been in touch with Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, Metuchen Mayor Jonathan Busch, as well as local fire chiefs, as crews continue responding to the fuel tanker fire on I-287 ... Please follow guidance from the New Jersey Department of Transportation and local officials, and allow first responders the space they need to do their work safely," Gov. Mikie Sherrill said.
"Thank you to all of the first responders who have been working for hours under difficult conditions to keep everyone safe," Sherrill added.
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