A tractor-trailer explosion on New Jersey Route 3 led to a death, road repairs, and traffic backup in Clifton yesterday after a truck was hit by a bus. The truck caused damage to the sound wall on the side of the highway.
"Rt 3 eastbound 2 RIGHT LANES between Rt 46 and Grove Street and RAMP from Valley Rd to Rt 3 eastbound REMAIN CLOSED in Clifton for ongoing emergency repairs," the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) said on X. "Use caution, slow down, and expect delays or plan alternate route."
The fire happened just after 9 a.m. yesterday on Route 3 eastbound between Valley Road and Grove Street. Policer officers responded to the scene and witnessed additional explosions from the tractor-trailer.
The 55-year-old man who was driving the truck had died, according to county prosecutors. The cause of the crash had not yet been determined.
Route 3 was closed in both directions and forced evacuations at nearby homes. Crews from NJDOT began emergency repairs on the eastbound lanes. The eastbound lanes reopened this morning, while one remained closed.
Crews finished paving the damaged portion of the road, installing fencing and repaired guardrails. The damaged sound wall will be permanently replaced later.
The investigation into the crash continues, according to police.
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Source: NBC New York, New Jersey News 12, CBS News
