Hazmat semi fire shuts down major Ohio/Kentucky bridge ‘indefinitely’
Officials say that the Brent Spence Bridge will be closed in both directions until further notice after a two truck crash triggered a massive fire early Wednesday morning.
The incident began at approximately 2:45 a.m. on November 11 in the northbound lanes of the Brent Spence Bridge, which carries I-71 and I-75 and connects Cincinnati, Ohio, and Covington, Kentucky, over the Ohio River.
Major traffic impacts this morning due to an accident/hazmat incident on the northbound (lower deck) of the I-75, Brent Spence Bridge, entering @CityOfCincy. Expect lengthy delays & detours as I-75 north & southbound will be closed for an undetermined amount of time. pic.twitter.com/cum9C1KSNv
— Cincinnati Police Department (@CincyPD) November 11, 2020
Authorities say that two trucks — one of which was carrying 110 pounds of potassium hydroxide– collided in the northbound lanes of the bridge.
By the time that police arrived on the scene, both trucks were totally engulfed in flames.
Both truck drivers made it out of the crash without major injuries.
The fire was so intense that officials closed the southbound lanes of the bridge as well.
The fire was contained by 7 a.m., but police say that they expect that the bridge will remain closed for most of Wednesday at a minimum as crews check the integrity of the structure and make sure that it is safe for travel.
Drivers are asked to seek alternate routes until further notice. According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, traffic is being detoured onto I-471 and I-275. You can also check ohgo.com for alternate routes and up to date travel information.
If you are looking for the best options for detours to avoid delays due to the accident on the I-75 Brent Spence Bridge & the closure of north & southbound traffic on I-75 we suggest you follow @ODOT & https://t.co/e3RG1cSUEv for updates. For KY go to @KYTCGoKY https://t.co/tjqsDk0F9g
— Cincinnati Police Department (@CincyPD) November 11, 2020