Driver Trapped In Early Morning I-684 Tractor-Trailer Rollover

BEDFORD HILLS, NY — An early morning crash on the interstate caused tense moments for rescuers and a pinned truck driver.

On Thursday, the Bedford Hills Fire Department was dispatched to a crash with injuries on Interstate 684, about 1 mile north of Exit 4. The New York State Police was on the scene reporting that the driver was trapped in a tractor-trailer approximately 12 feet off of the ground.

Engine 199 was the first to arrive and found a tractor-trailer in the median. The semi had rolled over in a "jackknife" position and the cab was suspended high off the ground. Due to the position of the cab, the driver was unable to get out and down to the ground. Engine 199's crew started to stabilize the tractor-trailer, and when Rescue 10 arrived, the crews used additional Paratech struts to stabilize the cab, according to fire officials.

A firefighter then used a ground ladder to reach the driver and bring him safely down to be evaluated by EMS.

The truck's fuel tank was also ruptured.

Mini Attack 9 and Utility 6 brought speedy dry and absorbent pads to protect any potential runoff, and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services Hazardous Materials Team was called to the scene to pump fuel from the truck. Due to the position of the truck and no life, or environmental hazard, crews determined that the leak would be mitigated once the vehicle was turned over.

The scene was then turned over to state troopers so the roadway could re-open for the rush hour commute.

Amazingly, no serious injuries to firefighters or the driver were initially reported.