A collision involving a propane truck led to the temporary closure of Interstate 93 in New Hampshire on Tuesday. No injuries were reported in the incident. At approximately 1:37 p.m., state police responded to a serious crash on I-93 northbound near mile marker 33 in Bow.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a 2023 Freightliner propane truck, operated by Donald Filteau, 63, from Bedford, was traveling in the center lane. The driver began to decelerate due to traffic congestion. At that time, several box trucks were stationed in the right breakdown lane. As Filteau slowed, a tractor-trailer, driven by Utkir Rakhimov, 45, from Southington, Connecticut, collided with the propane truck from behind.
The impact caused the propane truck to veer off the right side of the interstate, rolling onto its side. This rollover led to a minor brush fire and a propane leak from the tanker. Although the exact quantity of leaked propane remains undetermined, the truck was carrying approximately 128 gallons at the time of the accident.
Authorities closed both northbound and southbound lanes of I-93 temporarily to safeguard emergency personnel and motorists in the vicinity. The Bow Fire Department, the Central New Hampshire Hazardous Materials Team, and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation assisted the troopers at the scene.
The incident is under ongoing investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash or possesses information that could aid the investigation is urged to contact Trooper Jacob Plourde at [email protected] or call 603-223-4381. This situation is developing, and updates will be provided as more details become available.
The Tangible Impact
This accident underscores the critical importance of road safety and proper vehicular management, particularly when transporting hazardous materials such as propane. The temporary closure of Interstate 93 highlights how such incidents can disrupt daily commutes, potentially delaying travel and affecting schedules. For residents and travelers in the area, the incident serves as a reminder of the necessity for vigilance when navigating busy highways.
The involvement of hazardous materials teams and the fire department also points to the broader implications for emergency response systems. Such events place significant demands on local resources, emphasizing the need for well-equipped and prepared emergency services. Moreover, the incident raises awareness about the potential dangers associated with transporting flammable substances, prompting discussions on transportation safety standards and protocols to prevent similar occurrences.
