A tanker truck fire beneath an I-95 overpass in Philadelphia has resulted in a catastrophic collapse, shutting down the major interstate. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro confirmed a vehicle is trapped amidst the debris, with the possibility of at least one person still inside. While the governor did not confirm the occupant's identity, he stated that no injuries or fatalities occurred to drivers on I-95 at the time of the incident. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney acknowledged the fluid nature of the situation, while confirming no known fatalities as of yet.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the collapse, with White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirming communication with Governor Shapiro and Mayor Kenney's offices to offer federal support. The incident unfolded when a tanker truck, suspected to be carrying hundreds of gallons of gasoline, caught fire under the overpass, causing the elevated structure to give way. The fire was extinguished by 7:30 a.m., but both sides of I-95 remain closed as authorities and emergency responders manage the scene. Images reveal the severity of the collapse, showing the concrete structure crumbled onto the road below. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported as of Sunday afternoon.
Authorities have indicated an indefinite closure of I-95, with the northbound section completely destroyed and southbound lanes significantly compromised, according to Philadelphia Fire Department official Derek Bowmer. Bowmer also mentioned underground explosions, possibly caused by runoff from the fire or ruptured gas lines. Repair estimates suggest a timeline of several weeks, forcing drivers to seek alternate routes. Governor Shapiro mentioned exploring temporary solutions to reconnect the interstate, but a full rebuild could take months. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is collaborating with other agencies to expedite the highway's restoration, recognizing I-95's crucial role in connecting people and goods along the East Coast.
