DUTCH FLAT, CA – Driver Killed in Semi Truck Crash on 80 Freeway near Dutch Flat Road

Tanker Truck Carrying Jet Fuel Crashes Off 80 Freeway in Dutch Flat Killing its Driver

 
DUTCH FLAT, CA (January 14, 2019) – The driver was killed following a semi truck crash Monday morning on 80 Freeway in Dutch Flat, CHP officials said.
 
The fatal crash happened around 5:50 a.m. on eastbound 80 Freeway near Dutch Flat Road.
 
According to initial reports, a tanker truck carrying 7,000 to 8,000 gallons of jet fuel missed a turn and drove off the roadway. It jumped some rocks then plowed 200 feet down a cliff where it stopped, upside-down.
 
Access to the scene was a problem from the start. Safety ropes were used by first responders to reach the tanker and the driver, who was later found dead.
 
The stretch of the freeway had the look of a construction site. There were two fire hazmat units on hand for the jet fuel that spilled on the roadway.
 
Two Cal Fire bulldozers were used to build a road to the wreck and another tanker was used to offload the remaining fuel.
 
The Department of Fish and Wildlife was on scene with a scientist to look for jet fuel in Canyon Creek just below where the tanker came to rest. The creek contains lots of wildlife and the water runs downstream into Colfax.
 
Lanes along the 80 Freeway remained open but motorists were advised to be cautious of emergency vehicles on the shoulder.
 
CHP officials said the driver got on duty just an hour and a half before the crash. He was traveling from the Sacramento area to Reno.
 
Authorities did not rule out fatigue as a factor but an autopsy and toxicology tests are routine in cases like this.
 
No identifying information is being released at this time. The incident remains under investigation.

---

During this time of tragedy, we would like to extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family and friends of the victim. We hope they find strength and comfort as they grieve over their loss.

---

If you have lost a loved one in a road accident, do not hesitate to contact The Sweet Law Group today. We house experienced wrongful death attorneys who have been recovering full and fair compensation for accident victims and bereaved families for over 44 years. We will provide you with the support and top notch service needed to help you recover both financially and emotionally. Call us today at (800) 203-3061 for a free evaluation of your case details.