Bakersfield, California – Firefighters from the Kern County Fire Department responded to a severe fire in Wofford Heights after a semi-truck crashed into a house on the afternoon of Thursday, July 24th. The accident, which involved an electric pole and a propane tank, resulted in a significant fire.
The crash was reported at 4:27 p.m. on Highway 155 and Miller Road when a truck descending Evans Grade lost control and collided with a power pole after its brakes failed. Upon impact, the propane tank caused an explosion.
The driver managed to crawl out of the wreckage but suffered severe burns and life-threatening injuries. He was urgently transported to a local hospital by Liberty Ambulance.
The residents of the affected house were not present at the time of the crash, which was confirmed by the KCFD after a search of the burned home. The accident caused a structural fire and a grass fire, prompting the mobilization of aerial support teams and forest brigades to contain the flames.
Firefighters worked quickly to evacuate and notify nearby residents of the imminent danger. Nearby streets were closed by CHP officers, while Forest Service brigades cut hand lines and extinguished isolated fires.
This incident highlights the importance of safety in heavy cargo transportation and the rapid response of emergency services. The collaboration between Kern County firefighters and forest brigades was crucial in controlling the fire and minimizing damage.
Fortunately, there were no fatalities in this tragic accident, although the truck driver faces a long road to recovery due to the severe injuries sustained.
