40K Pounds Of Aluminum Scatters Across I-10: CHP

BANNING, CA — An early morning crash Monday snarled traffic and sent more than 40,000 pounds of aluminum across eastbound Interstate 10 in Banning. The semi-truck driver escaped with minor injuries, and the cause of the collision remains under investigation, according to California Highway Patrol initial reports.

Shortly after 4 a.m., the big rig driver experienced an unknown trouble behind the wheel just east of Hargrave Street, according to CHP dispatch reports. The semi-truck then veered across the roadway, for unknown reasons, when it overturned across the eastbound freeway lanes, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Jonathan Torres.

The load of aluminum then scattered across all lanes of the freeway, prompting temporary multi-lane closures, he said.

Cleanup efforts ensued, slowing traffic for several hours, according to Torres. Crews remained in the area until about 8 a.m.

Eastbound I-10 traffic was delayed through the region for several hours after the collision.

Authorities said alcohol or drugs were not considered factors in the crash.