SIGALERT: Big Rig Explodes On 57 Freeway, Driver Injured

FULLERTON, CA — The 57 Freeway was at a complete standstill after a big rig crashed, exploding into a ball of flames. Drivers narrowly avoided debris, according to media reports. The crash has shut down the northbound lanes and four southbound lanes of the Orange (57) Freeway in Fullerton, between the 91 Freeway and the 90 freeway. The closure is expected until at least noon, Tuesday, according to reports.

The three vehicle crash was reported at just after 3:30 a.m. near Yorba Linda Boulevard, just south of the Imperial Highway, according to the California Highway Patrol. The big rig smashed through the center divider, toppled and exploded in a fire ball, according to witnesses. The 35-year-old driver was taken to a nearby hospital and is reportedly in critical condition, according to media reports.

Fire authorities were summoned to the scene for cleanup of an oil spill, the CHP reported.

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