Crime & Safety
2 Truck Drivers Killed After Oxygen Tanks Explode In VA I-81 Crash
Two truck drivers died after a three-vehicle crash on I-81 sparked a fire and explosions from a load of oxygen tanks, state police said.
FREDERICK COUNTY, VA — Two truck drivers died after a fiery crash on Interstate 81 in Frederick County caused oxygen tanks to explode Thursday night, according to Virginia State Police.
Russell R. Haskins, 64, of Altavista, died at the scene. Jeffrey J. Hudnell, 52, of Philadelphia, suffered serious injuries and later died at an area hospital, police said.
According to authorities, the crash happened around 8:10 p.m. near Exit 310. A preliminary investigation revealed that a passenger car entering I-81 south failed to yield, crossed two lanes and struck a southbound tractor-trailer driven by Haskins.
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The tractor-trailer then veered off the interstate, crossed the median and struck Hudnell's truck, which was carrying oxygen tanks, police said. The collision sparked a fire that caused the oxygen tanks to explode.
The explosions damaged a Frederick County Sheriff's Office vehicle and another vehicle in a parking lot east of the interstate. The deputy was not injured.
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Police identified the passenger car's driver as Mario A. Saldivar-Romaro of Rockingham. He was not injured and was charged with reckless driving.
Additional charges are possible following consultation with the Frederick County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, police said.
The crash remains under investigation.
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