Tractor-Trailer Crash Causes Fire on Route H in Mount Vernon
MOUNT VERNON, Mo. (KOAM/KJFX) — At approximately 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026, a tractor-trailer traveling eastbound on I-44 crashed off an overpass onto Route H, igniting a fire.
The incident occurred on the west side of Mount Vernon, with reports indicating the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. The truck was reportedly transporting food products, potentially frozen breads, and the Health Department has been notified for load inspection.
Route H is currently closed, and delays are expected on I-44 due to the fire partially affecting the area beneath the overpass. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT), I-44 westbound is closed past Exit 44 at mile marker 44.4, with an estimated closure duration of 1.5 hours. Alternate routes are advised.
Emergency response teams are on the scene, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is underway. No injuries or fatalities have been reported at this time.