Bear – The Delaware State Police are investigating a motor vehicle crash involving an overturned crane that occurred this morning, according to Director of Public Information Sergeant Richard D. Bratz.
Bratz said the incident occurred around 7:46 a.m. Saturday, May 06, 2017 as Francis J. Roberts, 52 of Middletown, was operating a 2005 Peterbilt Crane Truck southbound on SR 1 south of School Bell Road north of Bear.
The Peterbilt Crane Truck had a tire blowout on the front left side of the vehicle which caused the truck to swerve into the center median. The crane truck then struck the center guard rail and overturned onto its left side. After striking the center median flying debris struck passing vehicles which sustained minor damage and with no injuries.
The New Castle County Paramedics and the Christiana Fire Company responded to the crash. The driver was trapped for approximately 75 minutes while troopers and multiple rescue crews worked safely to remove the driver. The driver was transported to the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center with non-life threatening injuries.
Troopers continue their investigation into this incident. SR 1 southbound in the area of the crash was closed for approximately four hours and then limited to just the right lane and shoulder south of route 273. All lanes of SR 1 northbound are currently open at this time. Motorists are advised to use caution as crews are still working in the area.