NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Traffic came to a standstill Thursday morning when a tractor trailer loaded with lumber erupted in flames following a two-vehicle crash inside the northbound lanes of the Monitor-Merrimac Bridge Tunnel.
The collision happened around 11:17 a.m. when a northbound Freightliner slowed for congestion.
Another Freightliner, carrying a full load of lumber, failed to stop in time and slammed into the rear of the first rig.
Moments later, the lumber truck burst into flames, sending thick black smoke billowing through the tunnel.
Key Points
- A lumber-loaded Freightliner struck another truck and caught fire on the MMBT northbound Thursday morning.
- The driver, Marvin Tucker, 52, of Whitakers, N.C., was charged with following too closely.
- No injuries were reported among either truck’s occupants.
Fire consumed truck as crews battled blaze
Firefighters responded quickly, working in heavy smoke to douse the flames that engulfed the rear truck. The fire consumed the vehicle, leaving charred debris scattered across the bridge span. Traffic was diverted for hours as emergency crews cleared the scene and inspected structural integrity before reopening lanes.
Investigation continues into cause and impact
Virginia State Police confirmed that the crash remains under investigation. Authorities cited Tucker for following too closely but said no further charges are anticipated at this time. Officials said all drivers involved escaped unharmed.
Traffic delays and cleanup
The incident caused major delays throughout the Hampton Roads region, with backups stretching for miles on Interstate 664. Hazmat teams assisted with cleanup, while transportation crews inspected the roadway before restoring full traffic flow later in the afternoon.
Safety reminder amid growing freight traffic
State officials urged commercial drivers to remain alert and maintain safe distances, especially along the heavily traveled bridge-tunnel corridor, where congestion and sudden slowdowns are common.
