WCBC

June 15th, 2017 by WCBC Radio

On Wednesday at 3:33pm The Cumberland Fire and Police Departments were dispatched to the area of I-68 East just east of the Rt. 220 on ramp for a report of a tractor trailer fire. Upon arrival Officers observed the truck and trailer to be fully engulfed in flames. Cumberland Fire Dept arrived on the scene and began to extinguish the blaze. For the safety of motorists it was determined to close both East and Westbound 68 until it was deemed safe for opening and clean up operations could be conducted. The driver of the rig was identified as 41 year old Jason Gingerich of Kokomo IN. The truck was owned by Jay Trans Inc out of Marion IN. The trailer was hauling refrigerated meat and was traveling to Aberdeen MD. No injuries were reported. The Cumberland Police Dept was assisted by the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office, State Highway Administration, and the Allegany County Fire Police with the diversion and direction of traffic control. The interstate eastbound remained partially closed until 1:00am. The removal and clean up was directed by Sponaugle’s Towing with the assistance of South Side Salvage. The cause of the fire remains under the investigation by the Cumberland Fire Dept Fire Marshall. There is nothing suspicious in nature at this time and it is believed that the fire was caused by hot brakes. The truck, trailer, and its contents were a total loss.