Overturned Big-Rig Blocks 60 Freeway In Moreno Valley

MORENO VALLEY, CA --- A big rig overturned this afternoon on the Moreno Valley (60) Freeway, prompting the closure of the entire westbound side of the freeway, clogging traffic for miles.

The tractor-trailer overturned about 1:15 p.m. at Theodore Street, leaving the driver with minor injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The agency said the rig was hauling metal parts, which were strewn all over the crash site.

A closure went into effect on the westbound 60 immediately after the crash, at which point a SigAlert was issued and CHP officers began diverting vehicles into Moreno Valley via Theodore. The detour route was north on Theodore, to westbound Ironwood Avenue, then to Redlands Boulevard, where motorists could re-enter the freeway.

The exit onto Gilman Springs Road was also being utilized. Prior to Gilman, there are virtually no paved roads available for traffic to use through the area, known as the Badlands.

Traffic was backing up two to three miles by 2 p.m., according to reports from the scene. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

A crane was summoned to the location to get the truck back on its wheels so it could be towed.
The CHP estimated the closure would last until at least 3:30 p.m.

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--City News Service/Images courtesy of J. Morris, E. Quinonez