A tractor-trailer loaded with approximately 30,000 pounds of cheese overturned Saturday morning along State Route 309 on the section of roadway commonly known as Mile Hill, shutting down traffic in the area for much of the day.
According to Pennsylvania State Police Frackville, the crash occurred around 9 a.m. when the 31-year-old driver from Nevada was traveling south on SR 309, descending the mountain and negotiating a right-hand curve. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed the raised center divider into the northbound lanes.
The truck then struck and broke through the guardrail, rolling onto its driver side before coming to rest roughly 100 feet down a steep embankment.
A 40-year-old male passenger from California was also in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Both occupants suffered minor injuries and were able to exit the cab without assistance.
As of 7:00pm, Route 309 North remained closed to through traffic while recovery operations continue. Authorities estimate the roadway will reopen by approximately 9 p.m. Saturday.
Photo Courtesy of the McAdoo Fire Company