LITTLEFIELD, ARIZONA — A tire that came off a vehicle in the northbound lanes of Interstate 15 crossed the median and hit a pickup truck pulling a fifth-wheel trailer on Friday, October 30. The pickup swerved into a FedEx semi and became lodged underneath it. Two people in the pickup were seriously hurt.
Beaver Dam Fire Rescue responded around 2:15 p.m. to southbound I-15 near Mile Marker 11. According to witness reports, the tire detached from a vehicle traveling north, crossed the median, and struck the pickup. The impact made the pickup swerve and collide with the semi on its passenger side, leaving the pickup stuck beneath the truck.
Both occupants of the pickup needed extrication. Firefighters worked for about an hour to free the occupant trapped under the semi.
The pickup driver suffered major injuries and was taken by Beaver Dam Fire Rescue ambulance. The passenger suffered critical injuries and was taken by Mesquite Fire & Rescue.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety, Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, ADOT, and Mesquite Fire & Rescue also responded.
Witnesses Describe the Scene
Drivers who were caught in the backup said traffic sat at a standstill for around 30 minutes. One couple who passed the wreck said they could not believe what they saw and were thankful everyone survived. They said they hope the woman recovers quickly.
One driver who was behind the camper said he saw a wheel and tire 50 to 60 feet in the air from somewhere, then parts exploded and the crash followed. He said he was focused on avoiding getting hit afterward.
Witnesses also said the pickup’s Australian shepherd jumped out of the truck after the crash. People tried to catch the frightened, fast-moving dog, and some people a few blocks away may have rescued it. One witness said he saw the driver waiting on the shoulder.
The report did not say whether the FedEx driver was hurt, or which vehicle the tire came from.
Comments courtesy of members of the public.
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