Driver Trapped After Semi Plunges Down Steep Embankment

Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department firefighters rescued a semi-truck driver who plunge down a 200 feet embankment after colliding with another semi on I-840 on Saturday, July 29. A firefighter was injured during the rescue, and a second one was treated for heat-related symptoms.

Firefighters responded to Interstate 840 and NW Broad Street at 4:42 a.m. and found a tractor-trailer overturned down the steep embankment. The driver was trapped inside the semi that landed on its side wedged between trees.

Fire crews used an e-spreader to open a window of the big rig to access the driver. Firefighters then used a K12 tool to cut a hole in the roof of the cab large enough to place a spine board inside to load the driver.

A path had to be cleared with a chainsaw before firefighters assembled a rope haul system to pull the driver on a stretcher up the steep embankment.

The driver of the semi was taken to the hospital – medically evaluated and treated.

During the rescue, a firefighter suffered heat-related injuries. He was taken to the hospital and later released. A second firefighter had a minor knee injury because of the rough terrain.

The driver of the other semi was not hurt.

Firefighters used the same rope haul system to transport rescue equipment up the 200-foot embankment.

Crews with fire Ladder 4, Rescue 4, Engine 5, Engine 7, Engine 9, Ladder 11, Rescue 11, Safety 1, Safety 2, and Battalion Chief 2 assist with the rescue.