Truck spill on I-75 causes lane closures, car damage

6/24/2011
BLADE STAFF

ERIE TOWNSHIP, MICH. — All three lanes of I-75 South were closed for three hours late Friday afternoon when a scrap metal truck’s back gate opened, depositing thousands of steel shards over a quarter-mile stretch of road.

“I’ve never seen anything like this, ever … not to say it hasn’t happened,” said Erie Township Police Officer Darryl Ansel, who said he has worked in the department for 33 years.

The incident occurred about 4 p.m., just south of Exit 5 near East Erie Road in Michigan. No injuries were reported, though 10 cars reported tire and paint damage. Because about 500 cars traveled over the stretch of road affected, Mr. Ansel said he expects more drivers to call in.

The driver was cited for careless driving, an infraction that includes a fine.