PEARL RIVER, La. — An 18-wheeler carrying solid pipes narrowly avoided disaster Tuesday when a sudden stop on I-59 southbound sent pipes crashing through the truck's cab and engine, barely missing the driver’s legs, St. Tammany Fire Protection District No. 11 said.
The incident caused a significant oil spill, closing a lane and creating traffic delays near Mile Marker 5.
Officials said that the incident occurred after the driver was forced to brake abruptly to avoid another vehicle. The sudden stop caused three solid pipes the truck driver was transporting, to shift and penetrate the truck's cab and engine. Miraculously, the pipes narrowly missed the driver's legs, according to the District's Facebook page.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene to address the oil spill. Sand is being used to absorb the spill, and the right-hand lane of the bridge remains closed as cleanup efforts continue.
No injuries were reported in the incident.
Motorists traveling southbound on I-59 should expect delays and seek alternative routes if possible.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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