A serious traffic accident occurred Monday morning at the Sluiskiltunnel near Terneuzen, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. Both victims were inside the cab of the truck, which overturned and came to rest on its side within the northern tunnel tube.
The catastrophic incident took place just after 11:30 AM, as confirmed by the tunnel management spokesperson. Eyewitness accounts and surveillance images indicate the truck hit the right wall, then the left wall before tipping over. It became clear early on this was a one-vehicle accident, as no other vehicles were involved.
According to reports, both victims have not yet been identified due to the police's investigation, which is still underway. A police spokesperson confirmed, "Both occupants of the truck have died." The truck was identified as a tank truck, but fortunately, it was not carrying any hazardous materials.
The response teams, including ambulances, firefighters, and even trauma helicopters were dispatched to the scene. Reports indicated the helicopter was diverted mid-flight when it was confirmed there were no survivors among the truck’s occupants. The police mentioned, "The investigation will take hours," as they gather witness statements and examine the scene thoroughly.
Damage to the tunnel walls was significant enough to require repairs before the highway could be reopened. "The tunnel is expected to remain closed until repairs are done," noted another police spokesperson, emphasizing the need for structural integrity before allowing traffic back through.
Both the northern and southern tubes of the Sluiskiltunnel were initially closed off to all traffic immediately following the accident. The northern tube remains locked down, with access expected to be restricted until at least later Monday evening as crews assess and mend the damage.
Motorists were advised to take alternative routes, especially via the nearby bridge on the N61, as officials worked on clearing the scene. The police have communicated with local media outlets about the situation, providing updated traffic information and advising on safety precautions.
This tragic event has not only claimed lives but also disrupted traffic flow significantly, with many motorists left searching for alternative transportation methods. Authorities are working diligently to restore normalcy and provide traffic updates as the situation evolves.
While the precise cause of the accident is still under scrutiny, the police's thorough investigations promise to reveal more insights. They are currently interviewing witnesses and analyzing any available footage to understand how the unfortunate event transpired.
This incident serves as another grim reminder of the risks associated with highway travel and the need for heightened safety awareness on the roads. The loss of life resonates deeply, and community support is being channeled to the victims' families as they contend with this sudden tragedy.
Until the area is cleared and repairs are made, traffic disruptions will continue to be felt. Local officials are hopeful for timely responses to maintain public safety and prevent such tragic incidents from occurring again.