Fiery Tractor-Trailer Crash on I-85 in Oconee County

A tractor-trailer crash on I-85 southbound near exit 2 in Oconee County caused significant disruptions Thursday morning between 7:30 and 8:00 AM. The South Carolina Highway Patrol reported that the truck, hauling a powdery washing substance, veered off the road, struck a guardrail, and collided with a bridge pillar, causing the cab to detach and ignite. A small amount of cargo spilled during the incident.

According to reports, bystanders heroically pulled the driver, the sole occupant, from the wreckage. The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) confirmed that the crash blocked all southbound lanes, forcing traffic to detour off the interstate. Troopers cited the driver for traveling too fast for conditions.