JACKSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA — A tractor-trailer hauling propane overturned Wednesday morning along U.S. 64 in Jackson County, shutting down a critical mountain truck route and potentially keeping the highway closed for several days, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said the semi was traveling west near Rhody Lane when it ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a guardrail, went down an embankment, overturned, and collided with several large boulders. The driver suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

^{Photo credit:  Jackson County Emergency Services}

Although no propane leak was reported, authorities confirmed the crash is being handled as a hazmat response because the tanker must be fully unloaded before the overturned truck can be safely recovered. Specialized crews are coordinating the offloading operation before any removal or roadway repairs can begin.

NCDOT said westbound U.S. 64 is closed near Norton Road, while eastbound lanes are closed beyond the hospital. Local residents may access driveways up to the crash site, but commercial trucks are required to remain on designated truck routes and avoid the area entirely.

Officials noted that weather was not a factor, as the roadway was dry and clear at the time of the crash. The department estimates the highway could reopen as early as Friday afternoon, pending completion of hazmat operations, cleanup, and any necessary repairs to the roadway and guardrail.

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