Freeway reopened after three-car crash shuts down both directions of I-75 at Warren Avenue
(CBS DETROIT) - Michigan State Police are investigating a three-car crash involving a tanker truck that closed both directions of I-75 at Warren Avenue in Detroit early Friday evening.
According to MSP, a 27-year-old driver was traveling northbound when they lost control due to speed and struck the side of a semi-truck. The driver of the semi-truck lost control and hit the median wall, knocking down a light pole and causing a concrete debris field.
Troopers say the cab of the semi-truck flipped over the median and landed on the southbound lanes. The tanker truck cab caught fire, but the trailer did not catch fire.
The at-fault driver flipped their vehicle on its side after striking the semi-truck, and another vehicle flipped on its side, coming to rest near the portion of the truck that was on fire. The driver was able to exit before their vehicle caught fire.
75 Crash Update:
— MSP Second District (@mspmetrodet) June 23, 2023
***Preliminary Investigation*** A 27 year old driver was driving northbound on I-75 Fwy near Warren Ave, lost control due to speed, and struck the side of a semi truck. The semi driver lost control and hit the median wall. 1/ pic.twitter.com/fNvCc2mrG6
Hazmat crews were on the scene emptying gasoline from the trailer. The tanker was carrying approximately 10,000 gallons of fuel.
Detroit Fire Department Chief James Harris has confirmed that seven people were taken to an area hospital, with three sustaining minor injuries. No fatalities have been reported.
"We were extremely lucky that this crash did not end in an explosion and fatalities," said MSP Lt. Mike Shaw. "Again, rain and bad driving behaviors just don't mix. When it rains, please slow down."
The at-fault driver was cited for careless driving and not having insurance.