An 18-wheeler overturned and spilled cargo after crashing into a minivan along Interstate 30 in West Dallas Friday morning, shutting all westbound lanes and leaving one person dead, authorities say.
The crash, reported at about 4 a.m., had all westbound lanes of I-30 blocked at Postal Way. The closure was ongoing as of 8:50 a.m.
Dallas County Sheriff's Department spokesman Raul Reyna said crews freed the trapped 18-wheeler driver from the truck cab and rushed him to a nearby hospital. The 64-year-old man was later pronounced dead, Reyna said. His name will be made public following the notification of next of kin.
Reyna said detectives believe the 21-year-old driver of a Dodge Caravan minivan was trying to merge onto the highway when the van and truck collided. The driver, who was not identified, was taken to a hospital, though Reyna did not describe the severity of her injuries.
A hazardous materials crew was sent to the scene to address the saddle tanks of the 18-wheeler which were possibly leaking fuel, and needed to be off-loaded before the wreckage could be removed from the highway, DFR said.
There is no clear timeframe for reopening the highway.
The crash remains under investigation, Reyna said.
