A garbage truck crash killed one person and critically injured another Wednesday evening after the vehicle struck support pillars beneath an overpass on U.S. Highway 287 in Fort Worth, forcing a major closure expected to last at least a week.
The crash happened around 6 p.m. in the 3500 block of U.S. 287, also known as Martin Luther King Freeway, at Erath Street, according to the Fort Worth Police Department and Fort Worth Fire Department.
Two men were inside the garbage truck when it left the roadway and struck several support pillars for the Erath Street bridge.
Driver Killed in Crash
The driver was ejected from the truck and pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.
Authorities have not released the identities of the two men pending notification of their families.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Highway 287 Closed for at Least a Week
The collision caused significant damage to the bridge supports, prompting officials to shut down all lanes of U.S. 287 in both directions at Erath Street.
Police said the highway could remain closed for seven to 10 days while crews evaluate the structural integrity of the overpass and determine the extent of repairs needed.
Traffic is being diverted onto service roads. Southbound motorists are being directed off the highway at Berry Street, while northbound drivers are being directed to exit at Wilbarger Street.
Officials are urging drivers to use alternate routes and avoid the area until it is determined to be structurally safe.
Bridge Repairs Could Extend Closure
The damaged Erath Street overpass is expected to remain closed while structural repairs are completed. Officials are evaluating the damage before determining the full repair schedule.
The Texas Department of Transportation has said crews are working to assess the bridge and highway and restore normal traffic as soon as conditions allow.
Motorists traveling through the area should expect significant delays and allow additional time for alternate routes.
