CANTON, NORTH CAROLINA — A portion of eastbound Interstate 40 in Haywood County was shut down after an 18-wheeler struck a road barrier, ripping open its diesel fuel tank and sparking a fire that destroyed the truck and trailer and caused significant damage to highway infrastructure.

^{Photo credit: North Canton Fire Department} 

The crash occurred near mile marker 28.5 to 29 near Clyde. According to North Canton Fire Department Chief Steve Kelley, the impact of the collision tore open the truck's diesel fuel tank, causing a fire. Crews successfully extinguished the blaze and no injuries were reported, but both the truck and trailer were completely destroyed. Chief Kelley reported that the crash caused large damage to the highway infrastructure, and that the roadway will remain closed while repairs are conducted.

^{Photo credit: North Canton Fire Department} 

I-40 eastbound was closed two miles after exit 27, with no estimated time for reopening at the time of reporting. Traffic was being routed through the town of Clyde until drivers could safely rejoin I-40 eastbound.

^{Photo credit: North Canton Fire Department} 

The Clyde Volunteer Fire Department and Junaluska Fire Department assisted with the response, along with NCDOT, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, IMAP, and Hatton's Towing & Recovery.

^{Photo credit: North Canton Fire Department} 

"Thank you to all departments involved," Chief Kelley said.

^{Photo credit: North Canton Fire Department} 

^{Photo credit: North Canton Fire Department} 

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