Overview
- A Peterbilt fuel tanker drifted into the shoulder and struck a box truck that had pulled over with a flat tire, according to California Highway Patrol investigators.
- The tanker carried an estimated 8,600 gallons of gasoline and erupted in a large fire that sent thick black smoke over the freeway.
- Selma and Cal Fire crews focused on preventing the fire from spreading and waited for the blaze to burn down before clearing the scene and opening lanes.
- CHP said both drivers were able to exit and suffered only minor injuries, though social posts and some early reports gave conflicting accounts of the casualties.
- Caltrans closed the southbound Highway 99 segment and diverted traffic to State Route 43 at the Floral Avenue exit, and investigators continue to treat an unsafe lane change as a likely cause while hazmat and road repairs proceed.