Tractor Trailer Catches Fire on Coastal Highway

Location: Coastal Highway and Shady Road, Lewes, DE

Date of Occurrence: Tuesday November 15, 2011 at 6:55 p.m.

Operators/Vehicles:
Operator #1 - Philip W. Jones, 62 of Wilmington, DE
Vehicle #1 – 2009 International Harvester Truck pulling a 2008 Great Dane Trailer

Resume:
Lewes, DE- Delaware State Police investigated a tractor trailer fire just south of five points Lewes which impacted early evening traffic.

At approximately 6:55 p.m. Philip W. Jones was operating his 2009 International Harvester Tractor Trailer southbound on Coastal Highway when he observed sparks coming from behind the cab. Mr. Jones was able to pull the 18 wheeler to the shoulder of the roadway and locate flames coming from the refrigerator unit of the trailer. As he tried to get his fire extinguisher from the cab, flames over took the compartment and he was able to escape the truck without any injuries.

The trailer Mr. Jones was hauling, contained non-flammable goods which were being transported to a local Wawa store. Lewes Fire Company responded to the scene and was able to put out the fire.

The roadway was shut down for approximately two and a half hours as the crash was investigated and cleared.

Mr. Jones was not cited by State Police.