DATE: 10/02/2023

(Angola, IN)- The Indiana State Police is currently investigating a single vehicle semi crash on US 20 near West Otter Lake, Steuben County.

According to the investigating trooper, preliminarily it appears that a 2015 Western Star semi-tractor/trailer was traveling westbound at a speed too fast to maintain control as it negotiated the curves on US20 near CR900W. The crash occurred at approximately 6:30pm this evening and resulted in the 40,000 pound load of steel being strewn all across both lanes of US20 and into the side ditches. The semi-tractor also incurred a pierced fuel tank and subsequent fuel spill. The semi caught fire as the driver was exiting through the windshield and was fully engulfed by the time fire crews arrived.

US 20 has been shut down in both directions between SR327 and CR900W while INDOT and EMA crews worked to clean up the debris. The roadway is expected to remain closed for the next couple hours.

The semi-driver, Duvall Arnold (58) of West Palm Beach, Florida suffered only minor injury during the crash and refused any medical treatment at the scene. He was cited for the alleged speeding violation.

Troopers are being assisted at the scene by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department, Orland Fire Department, Steuben County EMS, INDOT, Steuben County EMA, and Bill’s Professional Towing.

This remains an active crash investigation. At this time there is nothing further to release.