Interstate 83 in York County was temporarily closed in both directions Thursday evening after a tractor-trailer carrying phosphoric acid crashed and caught fire, triggering a hazardous-materials response and causing major traffic disruptions.

The incident prompted emergency crews, fire personnel, and hazardous-materials specialists to respond to the scene as officials worked to contain a chemical leak and determine when the roadway could safely reopen.

Details of the Interstate 83 Crash

The crash occurred at approximately 7:35 p.m. on I-83 southbound near mile marker 32 in Newberrytown, according to York County Emergency Management official Ted Czech.

Authorities reported that the tractor-trailer was the only vehicle involved in the collision. Following the crash, the truck caught fire, requiring emergency crews to respond quickly and extinguish the flames.

Although the fire was brought under control, the situation remained a significant concern because of the vehicle’s cargo.

Hazardous Material Spill Response

The tractor-trailer was transporting phosphoric acid, and officials reported that some of the chemical leaked onto the roadway following the crash.

Hazmat crews were called to assess the spill, manage the affected area, and take necessary precautions to protect emergency responders, motorists, and the surrounding environment.

Because of the hazardous material involved, Pennsylvania State Police closed Interstate 83 in both directions between Exit 28 and Exit 32 while crews worked to safely address the situation.

Authorities urged drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes until the highway could be reopened.

Traffic Disruptions Across York County

The closure created significant delays for motorists traveling through Newberry Township and surrounding areas.

Drivers approaching the affected section of I-83 were forced to find alternate routes as emergency personnel remained at the scene. The shutdown impacted commuters traveling through a major transportation corridor in York County.

The disruption was further complicated by existing roadwork in the area, where transportation officials have been conducting improvement projects along portions of I-83.

No Injuries Reported

Despite the severity of the crash and the presence of a hazardous substance, authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported.

Officials noted that the tractor-trailer was the only vehicle involved, reducing the likelihood of additional motorists being directly affected by the collision.

Emergency responders continued to focus on securing the scene, managing the chemical leak, and safely removing the damaged vehicle.

Investigation Into the Crash

Authorities have not released additional details regarding what caused the tractor-trailer to leave the roadway or crash.

The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation, and officials are expected to provide further information as the response continues.

Investigators will likely examine the vehicle, roadway conditions, and other available evidence to determine the factors that contributed to the crash.

Highway Reopening Efforts

The priority for emergency crews remained containing the phosphoric acid spill, ensuring the roadway was safe, and completing cleanup operations before reopening Interstate 83.

Motorists were advised to remain patient, follow instructions from law enforcement and transportation officials, and avoid entering the affected area while crews continued their work.

The incident caused a major interruption along one of York County’s busiest travel routes, but officials confirmed that no injuries occurred. Further updates regarding cleanup efforts and the full reopening of I-83 are expected as authorities complete their response.

Disclaimer: Information here is for general information purposes only. While efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information, details regarding incidents, investigations, injuries, hazardous materials, and official responses should be verified through authorized agencies or official statements.