Mount Tabor Crews Provided Mutual Aid During I-80 Fire

Morris Plains, N.J. — September 7 — Members of the Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department offered mutual aid to Denville Township during an early morning tractor-trailer accident on Interstate 80.The accident involved a vehicle fire and resulted in a vehicle being trapped.

The incident happened around 3:45 a.m. near milepost 40 after the tractor-trailer lost control, hit the center median and flipped over into the westbound lanes. A westbound Hyundai then collided with the truck, causing it to catch fire. New Jersey State Police reported that both drivers sustained minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital.

Mount Tabor fire units were called in to assist with fire suppression, ventilation, overhaul and water supply efforts.

Chief 1, Deputy 1, Squad 12, Engine 13 and Rescue 14 responded and stayed at the scene for approximately two hours before being released by command.

Firefighters from Boonton Township and Rockaway Township also arrived with tankers to help with water supply operations.

The crash caused Interstate 80 to be closed in both directions as emergency personnel worked at the scene.

Traffic control measures remained in place throughout the morning while the overturned tractor-trailer was removed.

The response highlighted the importance of mutual aid in providing additional personnel, equipment and water resources during complex highway incidents. Mount Tabor firefighters returned after helping Denville crews with the extended fireground operation.