UPDATE @ 10:03 a.m.: Texas Department of Public Safety Sgt. Stephanie Davis has released further informatin about the accident involving two 18-wheelers on US 96 earlier this morning.
According to Davis, a 2002 Kenworth log truck was traveling in the outside lane of US 96 south followed by a 2000 Freightliner truck tractor semi-trailer.
As the driver of the Kenworth log truck slowed to make a right turn onto CR 716, he was rear-ended by the Freightliner. The momentum of the collision caused both vehicles to roll onto their sides and resulted in the Freightliner losing its load of wood chips.
Due to the crash and a diesel fuel spill, the outside lane of US 96 south remains closed and there is no time estimation as to when the roadway will reopen. HazMat teams are in route to remove the diesel fuel from the road. Motorists are urged to find an alternate travel route. Expect delays.
Two 18-wheelers collide on US 96 in Jasper County around 6 a.m. Nov. 3, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Sgt. Stephanie Davis said in a release.
The crash, which was just north of Evadale near County Road 716, was reported to DPS around 6 a.m., the department said.
Davis said the outside lane of US 96 southbound is currently closed. Drivers are urged to use caution in the area and watch for emergency vehicles.
Both drivers were transported to St. Elizabeth's hospital with non life-threatening injuries, according to the release.