Multiple first‑responders were dispatched Monday night to a bridge fire in Dearborn County, Indiana. The blaze erupted near the intersection of State Route 46 and Barber Road in the town of West Harrison, along the span that crosses the Whitewater River.
Cause of the fire
According to a firefighter on the scene, a box truck loaded with paints and solvents caught fire while traveling on the bridge, which is currently under construction. The combination of flammable liquids and the confined space of the bridge contributed to a rapid spread of flames.
Emergency response
Fire crews from the New Trenton Fire Department arrived quickly and began extinguishing the flames. Because the truck was carrying hazardous materials, a hazmat team was also called to the site to address a diesel spill that resulted from the fire. Officials have not released the exact quantity of diesel that entered the river, but the team is working to contain any environmental impact.
Structural impact
Inspectors reported that the intense heat caused one of the bridge’s support girders to bend. The bridge remains closed to traffic while engineers evaluate the extent of the damage and determine when it can be safely reopened.
Investigation underway
The New Trenton Fire Department is leading the investigation into the cause of the fire. While the initial report points to the box truck’s cargo, authorities will review surveillance footage, interview the driver and examine the vehicle’s condition to confirm the exact sequence of events.
Community safety reminder
Local officials reminded residents and commercial drivers to exercise caution when transporting hazardous materials, especially on construction zones and bridges. Proper securing of loads and adherence to safety protocols can help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about road closures and detour routes through the Dearborn County Highway Department’s website and local news outlets. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and the bridge’s structural integrity is confirmed.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
