CHARLOTTE, N.C. — All lanes of Interstate 77, and the adjacent exit ramp to Interstate 277, have reopened following a fiery crash near Uptown Charlotte Tuesday.
The crash happened in the northbound lanes around 7 a.m. at the interchange with I-77 and I-277, which is also known as the John Belk Freeway. The tractor-trailer was engulfed in flames after crashing into a concrete barricade dividing the exit ramp from other traffic.
North Carolina State Highway Patrol said the driver crashed into a barrier and the trailer ignited upon impact.
The driver was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, according to state troopers.
During Tuesday's morning commute, traffic was backed up over 10 miles into Fort Mill, South Carolina, while firefighters worked to get the flames under control. Shortly after 6 p.m., the roadway was fully reopened.
Walmart released the following statement regarding the crash:
“This morning one of our trucks was involved in a one-vehicle accident. Our thoughts are with our associate as he is receiving medical attention and wish him a speedy recovery.”
The Clarkson Street bridge, which crosses over I-77, was not damaged by the fire or the crash, NCDOT said. Traffic is being allowed to use that bridge after a successful inspection.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said its officers assisted the NC State Highway Patrol and the Charlotte Fire Department with traffic control during the incident.
Vehicle fire on I-77 NB
Contact Chloe Leshner at cleshner@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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