A section of Interstate 95 in Philadelphia collapsed Sunday morning after a large tanker truck caught fire under the highway. The collapse occurred near the Cottman Avenue exit in Northeast Philadelphia.
Philadelphia officials released an image showing a scorched section of the highway caved in on the road below. Local and social media posts also showed black smoke coming out of the fire.
Authorities have not yet reported if there were any injuries during the incident.
Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management director Dominick Mireles told the Philadelphia Inquirer it could take weeks to repair the damaged portion of the highway.
Traffic on both sides of the highway between the Woodhaven and Aramingo exits have been closed, with officials urging drivers to take alternate routes.
I was just briefed by @PEMAHQ, @PennDOTNews, and @PAStatePolice on the I-95 fire and collapse in Philadelphia.
— Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) June 11, 2023
State Police and PEMA are on the scene assisting local first responders and @PennDOTSec and his team are en route to assess the situation and address traffic needs.
"For now, please avoid the area and follow the direction of the first responders on the scene," said Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro in a tweet. He also said he had been briefed about the explosion and collapse, and his office was working to assess what happened.
"The fire is under control and City and state agencies are responding to address impacts to residents in the area and travelers affected by the road closure," said Sarah Peterson, a representative to the mayor of Philadelphia, in an email statement.
This is a developing story.
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