Photo: Douglas Sacha / Moment / Getty Images
A fatal multi-vehicle crash involving a tractor-trailer and a box truck occurred on I-80 in Hackensack, just before midnight on Tuesday, May 21st. The tractor-trailer jackknifed, crossing the concrete divider from the eastbound side onto the westbound lanes, where it collided with a box truck that subsequently caught fire. An SUV was also involved in the accident.
The crash resulted in the closure of all lanes on both sides of the highway, causing significant delays for morning commuters. The wreckage stretched across nearly two-thirds of the entire highway, leaving drivers at a standstill for more than four hours.
Authorities confirmed that the crash was fatal, but the number of fatalities has not been disclosed. Injured individuals from the tractor-trailer and the SUV were treated at the scene. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the New Jersey State Police.
The cleanup operation is ongoing, and it is unclear when the highway will be fully reopened. More comprehensive information about the crash is expected to be released later today.