Tractor-Trailer Hits Overpass On I-81, Spilling Target Merch: PennDOT

On Friday morning, July 4, a tractor-trailer transporting goods for Target collided with an overpass on Interstate 81 in Cumberland County, causing boxes to pour onto the road and blocking a section of the highway, according to authorities.

the delays in traffic brought on by the tractor trailer colliding with an I-81 overpass.

According to an update from PennDOT spokesperson Fritzi Schreffler, the large rig struck the Stoughstown Road bridge over I-81 northbound at approximately 8:30 a.m. A portion of the trailer’s freight was dispersed onto the interstate when the collision broke through the right side.

Between Exit 29 (Shippensburg) and Exit 37 (Newville), the route was closed. Schreffler explained that only cars already stuck past Exit 29 were being released in a regulated queue, despite the fact that traffic was observed moving in the left lane beyond the scene. They were detouring all other northbound traffic.

A different car was found facing the incorrect way across the median, against the cable barrier. Investigators are still trying to determine if it swerved to avoid the collision or was a part of it.

After evaluating the span, bridge workers concluded that the parapet damage was minor, allowing Stoughstown Road to stay open. There have been no reports of injuries.

Bridge inspectors and PennDOT maintenance crews stayed on the scene to supervise cleanup and assess the structure’s safety.

While workers cleared debris and reopened the road, drivers were advised to stay away from the area and anticipate delays.

The story is still evolving. For updates, return to Daily Voice.