Semi crashes on I-94 in St. Croix County

February 27, 2012

Highway repairs to begin today

At approximately 5:30 a.m. Monday, a semi tanker carrying nearly 7,500 gallons of fuel crashed in the westbound lanes of I-94 near the village of Roberts in St. Croix County.

The truck was travelling eastbound when it left the roadway, crossed the median, struck the northside of the WIS 65 bridge pier. The rear of the trailer separated from the cab and an explosion occurred that destroyed the semi and killed the lone occupant.

Due to the heat of the fire, the pavement on I-94 will need to be repaired. The westbound lanes and WIS 65 over I-94 will remain closed until the Wisconsin Department of Transportation can make temporary repairs. The department is anticipating opening both westbound lanes later this afternoon, but at a reduced speed.

Weight limits on WIS 65 will also be posted at 40 tons. The bridge is structurally sound and was not compromised, however it is being replaced as part of an already scheduled improvement plan that will construct a new interchange at the location beginning this summer.

Traffic is being rerouted off of the interstate at milepost 10 exit ramp and then back down the entrance ramp.

For more information, contact:
Lieutenant Jeff Lorentz, Wisconsin State Patrol
(715) 839-3800

Communications Manager Chris Ouellette, WisDOT NW Region
(715) 833-9814, chris.ouellette@dot.wi.gov