Update-Semi crash blocks traffic near Jerome

IDAHO STATE POLICE NEWS RELEASE – generated by our News Release ListServer

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IDAHO STATE POLICE NEWS RELEASE

District 4 Patrol 218 West Yakima, Jerome, ID 83338-5904 (208) 324-6000

Fax (208) 324-7897

For Immediate Release: 06/12/12 11:50 p.m.

Please direct questions to the District Office

***Update***

On June 12, 2012, at approximately 7:00 pm, Idaho State Police investigated a two vehicle crash eastbound on I84 at milepost 168 near Jerome. William Moriarty, 53, of Ashland, Oregon, was traveling eastbound in a 2002 Freightliner hauling a single trailer when he noticed an unoccupied silver 2002 Audi TT Coupe on the right shoulder. Moriarty was preparing to move into the left lane when he dropped a soda can he was holding onto the ground. He attempted to pick the can up which caused him to drift onto the right shoulder and strike the Audi. Moriarty's semi truck caught fire and burned to the ground. Moriarty was not injured in the crash and was wearing his seatbelt.

All eastbound traffic were blocked for an hour and half before one lane was open. One lane is still blocked at this time as cleanup crews are removing the semi, estimated time for all lanes to be open is 3:00 am. The crash is still under investigation by the Idaho State Police with assistance from Jerome Police Department.

***end of update***

***Update***

One lane is now open. A full media release will be issued shortly.

***end of update**

All eastbound traffic is currently blocked on Interstate 84 at milepost 168, near Jerome, due to a crash involving a semi. Officers and the Idaho Transportation Department are on scene diverting traffic at milepost 168. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

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Posted in District 4 - Southern Idaho