Mifflin Township, OH (May 18, 2026) – A crash between two commercial semi-trucks on Interstate 71 northbound at milepost 180 left one driver hurt and one truck destroyed by fire on Monday, May 18. The incident was reported at approximately 7:48 a.m.
A 2022 International semi-truck was stopped on the eastern shoulder when a 2016 Kenworth T680 traveling north veered onto the shoulder and struck the left rear of the International’s trailer. The Kenworth then returned to the travel lanes before going off the right side of the road and hitting a guardrail. Both trucks came to rest along the eastern side of the interstate.
The Kenworth and its trailer caught fire and were a total loss. The driver of the International, Shawn E. Elson, 55, of Dayton, Ohio, was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening. The Kenworth’s driver, Steven Earl Dyer, 54, of Liberty Township, Ohio, was not hurt and was treated at the scene. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected as factors. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our thoughts are with Shawn Elson as he recovers.
What Causes Semi-Truck Fires After Crashes on Ohio Interstates?
When a large commercial truck strikes a guardrail or another vehicle at highway speed, the impact can rupture fuel lines, damage the engine compartment, or ignite cargo. These fires can spread quickly because semi-trucks carry large fuel tanks and often haul flammable materials. Once a fire takes hold, the truck and trailer can become a total loss within minutes.
Shoulder crashes involving disabled semis are a recurring hazard on Ohio interstates. A stopped truck on the shoulder is difficult for approaching drivers to avoid, especially when traffic is moving fast. Proper use of hazard lights, reflective triangles, and keeping a safe distance from large vehicles are among the steps that can help reduce the chance of a secondary crash.
