Truck driver dead after vehicle explosion shuts down US 59 southbound in Wharton County, authorities say

Traffic alert (KPRC 2)

WHARTON COUNTY, Texas – A truck driver is dead after an explosion following a vehicle crash that involved an 18-wheeler and a tandem trailer in Wharton County, authorities said.

The explosion happened near the Colorado River Bridge shortly before 8 a.m. Thursday morning.

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Wharton County authorities said in a Facebook post that an 18-wheeler truck and a tandem trailer truck collided. An explosion caused both trucks to be fully engulfed in flames.

The driver of the 18-wheeler died in the fire, while the driver of the tandem trailer was not hurt, according to authorities.

U.S. 59 southbound between FM 102 and FM 961 remains closed as crews clear the scene. No word on when lanes will reopen.

Drivers are encouraged to find an alternate route.

### Happening Now ### Vehicle fully engulfed near the Colorado River Bridge. Both NB/ SB lanes blocked at this time. Heavy police/ fire presence. Use alternate routes.

Posted by Wharton Police Department on Thursday, February 17, 2022

About the Author:

A graduate of the University of Houston-Downtown, Ana moved to H-Town from sunny southern California in 2015. In 2020, she joined the KPRC 2 digital team as an intern. Ana is a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, a catmom of 3, and an aquarium enthusiast. In her spare time, she's an avid video gamer and loves to travel.