Two tractor-trailers collided and exploded in a fireball that closed eastbound Interstate 78 in Springfield, New Jersey, Monday afternoon.
Authorities say the tractor-trailers crashed in the eastbound local lanes near exit 50 just before 1:30 p.m.
Both trucks exploded in flames, spilling flaming debris across the roadway and sending a black plume of smoke into the air.
State Police say both drivers were trapped in their tractor-trailers. There is no word on their injuries.
One state police official said it was highly unlikely either driver survived the crash.
"It looks like we have two deceased drivers," the official said.
The eastbound lanes of Interstate 78 were closed indefinitely for the investigation.
"A big black cloud, like a mushroom cloud of smoke, was over the highway," Kim Fredericks said. "You couldn't see anything because of the smoke...Springfield Fire and Rescue is here. There are troopers everywhere...there's nothing left of the truck. It's just a heap of metal."
Republished with permission from WABC-TV
