Truck Driver Critically Injured After Fiery Tractor-Trailer Crash on I-95 in St. Johns County

A tractor-trailer driver suffered critical injuries after a fiery crash on Interstate 95 in St. Johns County that shut down traffic for hours and caused widespread delays throughout Northeast Florida.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on June 12 and involved a truck tractor that overturned and became engulfed in flames after striking a guardrail in the interstate median.

The incident remains under investigation.

What We Know About the Crash

Florida Highway Patrol investigators reported that the crash occurred at approximately 10:18 a.m. on southbound Interstate 95.

According to authorities:

• A truck tractor and trailer combination was traveling southbound.
• The vehicle was initially traveling in the center lane.
• The driver suddenly steered left.
• The truck crossed into the left lane and entered the median.
• The vehicle struck a guardrail.
• The truck overturned on top of the guardrail.

Following the rollover, the tractor-trailer became fully engulfed in flames.

Driver Airlifted With Critical Injuries

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene.

According to investigators:

• The truck driver suffered critical injuries.
• A medical helicopter transported the driver to UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville.
• No additional injuries were immediately reported.

The severity of the crash prompted an extensive emergency response.

Interstate 95 Closed for Hours

The crash caused major disruptions along one of Florida’s busiest transportation corridors.

Officials reported:

• Traffic was stopped in both directions.
• Long backups formed on Interstate 95.
• Motorists remained stranded for hours.
• Alternate routes quickly became congested.

The closure also contributed to a secondary crash later in the day as traffic conditions worsened throughout the region.

Commercial Truck Crashes Can Have Serious Consequences

Due to their size and weight, commercial vehicles can create particularly dangerous situations when a crash occurs.

Rollover crashes involving tractor-trailers often result in:

• Serious injuries
• Highway closures
• Fuel spills
• Fires
• Extensive property damage

Investigators continue working to determine what caused the truck to leave its lane prior to the collision.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol remains the lead agency investigating the crash.

Troopers are expected to review:

• Driver actions before the crash
• Vehicle maintenance records
• Mechanical systems
• Roadway evidence
• Witness statements

Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.

Our thoughts are with the injured driver and everyone affected by this major interstate crash.