Big-Rig Crash & Fire With Multiple Injuries Shuts Down I-680 In Walnut Creek
WALNUT CREEK (CBS SF) -- A big-rig crash and fire with multiple injuries halted the Friday morning commute on I-680 just south of State Route 24.
Reports indicate the big-rig carrying 60,000 pounds of gravel caught fire near the Main Street on-ramp in Walnut Creek shortly before 7 a.m.
The truck launched concrete from the highway-dividing wall onto both sides of the freeway and vehicles collided with the falling debris. Fortunately the gravel stayed on the truck, CHP Officer John Fransen said.
The big-rig driver and three people in nearby vehicles suffered minor injuries.
One of those injured complained they got glass in their eye and were short of breath, Fransen said.
MAP: Latest Traffic Conditions
The big-rig's two diesel fuel tanks, each carrying 50 gallons of fuel, caught fire.
Most of the fuel burned off but some found its way into dirt near a storm drain. Crews are suctioning out the affected dirt to limit environmental damage, Fransen said.
All northbound lanes and two southbound lanes of I-680 were closed as of 9:08 a.m. Three southbound lanes were open. CHP estimates all lanes will reopen around noon.
