NORTH CAROLINA — An early-morning crash involving a tractor-trailer on Interstate 40 East in Haywood County caused a fire that melted sections of the roadway and forced the interstate to close, officials said.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 6 a.m. Thursday near mile marker 28.5 close to Clyde.
Troopers said the tractor-trailer was traveling east when it struck a collapsible crash container and then hit a concrete barrier before coming to a stop about 200 to 250 feet down the interstate. The truck then burst into flames.
Authorities said the driver was able to escape the vehicle safely. The truck was hauling rolls of wire, which spilled across the roadway during the crash.
Officials said debris from the crash and damage to the pavement forced the closure of both eastbound lanes of I-40. The North Carolina Department of Transportation reported that the intense heat from the fire melted asphalt on both lanes and the shoulder.
Transportation officials said the interstate would remain closed indefinitely while crews clear debris and repair the damaged roadway. There is currently no estimated time for reopening.
Nearby back roads, including Thickety Road, Old Clyde Road and U.S. 19/23, experienced heavy traffic as drivers were rerouted around the closure, according to residents in the area. Authorities said additional updates will be provided as the situation develops.
