MnDOT: Semi Smashed Out 47 Lights In Lowry Hill Tunnel

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is looking for a truck driver who demolished 47 lights in the Lowry Hill Tunnel in Minneapolis — where trucks have been banned since June.

Trucker Leaves Scene After Breaking Tunnel Lights

MnDOT says that the incident happened on Friday, July 28 during the morning rush hour. A semi in the westbound lanes busted out 47 lights attached to a wall while rounding a curve in the tunnel.

Construction crews had to stop traffic through the tunnel to clean up debris from the broken lights.

A motorist who was behind the truck during the incident took photos and called the police just before 7 a.m.

Driver Could Face Criminal Charges, Fines

The Minnesota State Patrol says that the truck driver could face criminal charges if he is found. MnDOT also says that they will bill the truck driver for the damage when they discover who is responsible.

In late June, the Minnesota State Patrol issued a warning that CMVs weighing more than 9000 pounds are banned from using the Lowry Hill Tunnel because of ongoing construction. They have increased patrols in the area, handing out $300 tickets for violating the ban, but they say that this hasn’t deterred many truck drivers from using the tunnel.

You can click here to view MnDOT video of the truck hitting the lights.