By: Richard L. Smith
Police in Linden are investigating a serious early morning crash that caused major traffic disruptions after a tractor-trailer split in half on a busy stretch of Route 1&9 Tuesday.
According to preliminary information, the incident occurred shortly before 3:45 a.m. on the northbound side of Route 1&9 near Westbrook Drive.
Authorities said the tractor-trailer, which was transporting approximately 80,000 pounds of copper, split apart during the crash, forcing officials to shut down multiple lanes while crews worked to safely unload the cargo and remove the damaged vehicle from the roadway.
Emergency management officials and the Department of Transportation were requested to assist with traffic control as cleanup operations stretched into the morning commute.
Motorists traveling through the area should expect significant delays and are urged to seek alternate routes while the investigation and cleanup continue.
No serious injuries were immediately reported. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.