Fiery two-truck collision blocks I-22

A collision involving two 18-wheelers caused a fire and smoke that could be seen from both New Albany and Blue Springs shortly before 4 p.m.

The accident occurred just east of the County Road 121 overpass east of New Albany in the westbound lane of I-22 between the Wallerville and New Harmony areas.

According to unconfirmed reports, one of the drivers was reported injured and in need of an ambulance but no other information about his condition was available at the time.

One of the trucks was said to be carrying shingles and the fire caused thick black smoke for about 30 minutes as the vehicles burned and fuel tanks burst.

Traffic was backed up nearly two miles in the westbound lane behind the accident before traffic began to be re-routed along Hwy. 178.

The detour led to traffic coming into New Albany on Hwy. 178 being backed up from the Hwy. 15 intersection on East Bankhead Street nearly to Beacon Hill.

Firefighters work to extinguish the smoldering remains of the vehicles.

Traffic in the westbound lane was backed up nearly two miles. The eastbound lane was partially opened.