June 28th, 2024 by WCBC Radio

On June 27, 2024, at 5:16 PM, the Cumberland Police Department and Cumberland Fire Department responded to a report of a vehicle crash on I-68 eastbound at the Johnson Street exit.

Upon arrival, rescuers found a tractor trailer had crashed and was on fire. Several bystanders attempted to rescue the driver, but he was trapped. The Cumberland Fire Department quickly extinguished the flames; however, the male driver succumbed to his injuries.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the tractor trailer, traveling eastbound on Interstate 68, lost control and struck a Toyota passenger van before careening off the roadway, striking a tree, and catching on fire. The driver of the van was transported to the hospital by the Cumberland Fire Department with non-life-threatening injuries.

The truck, owned by Zay Kie Logistics of West St. Paul, Minnesota, was hauling a load of chai tea.

Rescue efforts and investigation were supported by the Bedford Road Fire Department, Cresaptown Fire Department, LaVale Fire Department, Eastern Garrett Fire Department, Allegany County Hazardous Materials Team, Allegany County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Mountain Maryland Search Team, Cumberland Street Department, and State Highway Administration.

The incident is still under investigation by the Cumberland Police Department, assisted by several other law enforcement agencies. Witnesses or anyone with information are asked to contact Sgt. Jake Sullivan at the Cumberland Police Department at 301-777-1600.