An unfortunate incident on Thursday led to the death of a driver when a tanker truck lost control, overturned, and burst into flames on Florida's Turnpike near Bird Road in southwest Miami-Dade. The crash resulted in the complete shutdown of the highway in both directions, causing significant traffic congestion.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the accident occurred shortly before 10:30 a.m. in the southbound lanes, near mile marker 23, corresponding to the Bird Road (SW 40th Street) exit.
"The truck lost control, overturned, and crashed into the concrete barrier in the median," stated the FHP in a report cited by NBC Miami.
The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The authorities have not yet released the driver's identity.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue teams quickly responded to extinguish the fire, which nearly destroyed the vehicle. Aerial footage from Sky 10 helicopter of Local 10 displayed the truck reduced to a charred frame while firefighters worked to cool the remnants and a thin plume of smoke lingered in the area.
Footage and images from the scene also showed long lines of vehicles halted in both directions due to the complete closure of the highway.
Authorities advised drivers to seek alternate routes as the removal of the vehicle and the investigation into the accident continue.
As of now, the FHP has not determined what caused the truck to lose control, nor have they announced when the highway will fully reopen.
The Turnpike has witnessed several fatal accidents in recent years. In August 2025, a trucker's illegal turn led to a crash that killed three people, resulting in vehicular homicide charges. Earlier that year, in January, a collision between two trucks on another stretch of the highway resulted in a woman's death.
The investigation into the causes of the incident remains ongoing.
Key Details on Miami-Dade Turnpike Accident
What caused the tanker truck to lose control on the Turnpike?
The Florida Highway Patrol has not yet determined the cause of the tanker truck losing control.
How has the accident affected traffic on the Turnpike?
The accident led to the complete shutdown of the highway in both directions, causing significant traffic congestion.
Are there alternative routes suggested for drivers?
Authorities have recommended drivers use alternate routes while the investigation and removal of the vehicle are underway.