ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) – Virginia State Police is investigating multiple crashes that happened on Interstate 81 on Tuesday afternoon.
A truck, driven by 62-year-old John D. Duggins of Stuarts Draft, was carrying an oversized load when it hit two overpasses while traveling south on I-81 at mile marker 241.5 near Cecil Wampler Road and 239.5 near North River Road, according to VSP. The truck then continued to travel south until it was later found at a rest area in Augusta County, VSP said. VDOT also said a third bridge was struck was ‘slightly struck’ but sustained no significant damage.
Duggins is facing the following charges:
- Misdemeanor property damage
- Violating maximum vehicle height
- Reckless driving
- (2) Misdemeanor hit and run
- Permit violation
First responders like the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company were working at the sites of the bridge strikes. Both overpass bridges will be closed to traffic for “a duration of time yet to be determined,” according to the BVFC post.
As of 8:07 p.m., VDOT said the right lane of southbound I-81 could remain closed until at least Wednesday morning due to detailed inspections and possible repairs. Along with that, routes 704 and 867 will also not reopen until VDOT determines that they are safe for vehicle traffic…