A dump truck drove off Interstate 10 near the Esplanade Avenue exit in New Orleans on Thursday, leaving two people hospitalized and shutting down multiple lanes during the afternoon commute.
According to New Orleans police, the truck crashed through a concrete barrier and fell roughly 30 feet onto North Claiborne Avenue, scattering debris and fuel across the roadway. Emergency crews from NOPD, EMS, and the New Orleans Fire Department responded to the scene.
Authorities say the driver swerved to avoid another accident on the overpass, causing the vehicle to go over the edge. Both the driver and passenger were transported to University Medical Center and listed in stable condition.
The crash forced the closure of Claiborne Avenue at Columbus Street and restricted I‑10 eastbound traffic to a single lane for several hours. All lanes reopened later that evening, but officials urged drivers to avoid the area during cleanup and inspection of the damaged railing.
New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno called the incident “an incredibly serious accident” and expressed gratitude that no lives were lost, praising first responders and cleanup crews for their swift work.
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