DAVIE, FL — A fiery crash between a fuel tanker and a bus shut down westbound lanes of I-595 Sunday morning, sending one person to the hospital and prompting a large emergency response.
The collision occurred just after 10 a.m. near Flamingo Road, according to Davie Police. The impact caused the tanker to overturn and ignite, producing towering flames and thick black smoke visible for miles.
One unidentified victim was transported to Broward Health Medical Center, officials confirmed. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as terrifying. NBC6 reporter Chernéy Amhara, who drove past the wreckage, said, “I could feel the heat through my car… a ball of fire.”
Videos from the scene showed fire crews dousing the tanker with foam as flames raged. Several bystanders were seen aiding a shirtless man moments after the explosion.
Sandra Gutierrez, who was driving on I-595 at the time, described seeing “a big, big flame going up in the air.” Nearby residents, like Victoria in Plantation, reported toxic fumes and used makeshift protection to avoid inhaling smoke. “Thankfully I had my towel,” she said.
The Florida Highway Patrol has not released details on how many people were in the bus or the tanker. Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, Sunrise Fire Rescue, and hazmat teams responded to the incident. Cleanup crews worked for hours to remove the wreckage using cranes, and the highway remains closed westbound as of Sunday evening.
FHP has taken over the investigation. Further information from Broward Transit regarding the bus and its passengers is pending.
