CLIFTON, N.J. — A devastating incident on Route 3 in Clifton claimed the life of a 55-year-old truck driver when his tractor-trailer exploded and burst into flames early Monday morning, according to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s office.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after reports emerged about the accident. Preliminary investigations suggest the truck collided with a barrier before catching fire, leading to a fierce blaze that prompted local authorities to evacuate nearby residences as a precaution.
The driver, identified as a resident of Linden, New Jersey, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities discovered his body within the charred remains of the vehicle once the fire was extinguished. The incident caused significant disruptions along Route 3, with both directions of the highway experiencing lane closures.
As recovery and investigative efforts continue, parts of the highway remain shut. The New Jersey Department of Transportation has advised motorists that the eastbound lanes and the ramp from Valley Road to Route 3 are still closed for emergency repairs. Travelers are encouraged to exercise caution in the area or seek alternate routes to avoid delays.
The incident also raised environmental concerns briefly; however, the Passaic County health officials and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection have confirmed that there are no airborne contaminants present. This news comes after careful testing of the area surrounding the accident site.
Footage circulating on social media platforms captured the intensity of the fire, with high flames and thick smoke visible, underscoring the severity of the crash. The visuals contributed to a better understanding of the scale of the emergency response and the swift action taken by firefighting units.
Local traffic maps and updates show ongoing heavy traffic in the vicinity as the clean-up operation progresses. Digital traffic platforms offer real-time updates and alternative route suggestions to assist drivers navigating around the affected stretch of road.
The community has been rattled by the incident, with local officials attending to the immediate priorities of road safety and public health. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with authorities looking into all potential factors that could have contributed to this tragic event.
The loss of life in this accident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with road travel, especially for those operating heavy vehicles. Moving forward, local residents and officials hope that insights gained from this incident will lead to enhanced safety measures on Route 3 and similar thoroughfares.