Fairfield (NJ) On Thursday, May 11, 2023 at approximately 12:42 pm, traffic came to a halt on Route 46 in both directions after a roll off truck struck the Gately Overpass, ultimately closing both directions of the highway for a short period of time. Officer Sean McCormack investigated the crash and it was determined that the truck, owned by Cheap Disposal and driven by Gregory Giroux (60) of Whippany, NJ, was travelling on Route 46 East in the right lane of travel. From video and witness accounts, Giroux failed to lower the hydraulic assembly which, in turn, struck the Gately Overpass. The impact caused damage to the bridge, and the truck ultimately came to rest facing the wrong way on Route 46 West.
The hydraulic assembly was sheered from the truck, falling onto the roadway under the Gately Overpass in the right lane of travel. Giroux suffered injuries and was transported to the hospital for further care. Traffic was diverted in both directions off of the highway for a period of time until the NJDOT could come out to assess the damage. The Gately Overpass was also closed for several hours. Ultimately, the bridge and the road werereopened in both directions.
“This was an unfortunate but preventable accident, and it’s nothing more than a miracle that more people were not hurt,” said Public Information Officer Stacy Chiarolanza.
The accident is still under investigation at this time.
Issued by: Officer Stacy Chiarolanza (PIO)
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