Freeway Underpass Remains Closed Day After Tanker Crash In Elysian Park
ELYSIAN PARK (CBSLA.com) — A freeway underpass in Elysian Park remained closed to traffic Sunday a day after a tanker truck overturned and burst into flames.
LISTEN TO KNX 1070 FOR LIVE TRAFFIC UPDATES
Officials say engineers are looking for possible structural damage along the connector road linking the southbound 2 Freeway to the southbound 5 Freeway.
The accident occurred Saturday morning when police say the tanker blew a tire.
The big rig, which was hauling 8,500 gallons of fuel, burst into flames upon impact. The accident caused a traffic nightmare for drivers in and around the area.
Officials also said a small amount of fuel spilled into storm drains and into the L.A. River.
The truck driver escaped with minor injuries.
"For him to be able to get out safely the way he did was really lucky," said LAFD Capt. Alicia Mathis.
Meantime, Caltrans is warning drivers to be prepared for a difficult Monday morning commute as it's not known when the interchange might completely reopen, KNX 1070 reports.
For more on traffic, freeway closures and alternate routes, click here.
RELATED STORY: Fuel Tanker Overturns, Bursts Into Flames In Elysian Park
