Tractor-trailer overturns on I-75; driver trapped

Firefighters rescue driver from cab of truck leaking chlorine on highway

WESTON, Fla. – A tractor-trailer overturned Thursday morning on Interstate 75 in Weston, trapping the driver inside.

The driver was trapped in the cab of the truck, which was on its side. He was later identified as Charles Davis, 52, of Opa-locka.

Broward Sheriff's Office firefighters cut open the roof of the cab to free the driver. It took about two hours, but they were eventually able to free the man from the wreckage. He was airlifted to Broward Health Medical Center.

Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Mark Wysocky said two other cars were involved in the crash. The drivers were taken to Cleveland Clinic but were expected to be OK.

Wysocky said investigators believe one of the cars changed lanes, causing the truck driver to swerve out of the way and into another car.

BSO Department of Fire Rescue spokesman Mike Jachles said the truck was carrying chlorine that was leaking onto the highway.

"The driver had to be decontaminated," Jachles said. "Our firefighters (and) anybody going through that hot zone had to be decontaminated as well."

Northbound lanes of I-75 near Royal Palm Boulevard were closed for much of the day during the rescue and cleanup effort. All lanes reopened just after 6 p.m.

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A tractor-trailer carrying chlorine overturns on Interstate 75 in Weston.