Johnson County - An afternoon crash on I-65 in Johnson County caused major headaches for evening commuters. At approximately 4:15 p.m. a semi pulling an empty box trailer struck another semi, starting a chain reaction crash involving seven vehicles. As a result of this crash, I-65 NB at the 92 mile marker was closed for approximately three hours.
Preliminary investigation indicates 43 year old Jose Montalvo of Hialeah Florida, driving a Red 2000 Freightliner, came upon stopped traffic in the right lane. Montalvo rear ended another tractor trailer, setting off a chain reaction crash that collected six semi tractor-trailers and one van. One driver of another semi was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Jose Montalvo, who caused the crash, fled from the scene on foot before police arrived. He was located a short time later by the Johnson County Sheriff's Department. Montalvo was arrested and lodged in the Johnson County Jail on preliminary charges of driving with a suspended license, leaving the scene of crash and driving without insurance. He was also cited for following too closely and several Federal Motor Carrier Violations. A full inspection of the semi by Master Trooper Kelly Lazzell uncovered several violations.
Grahm's Wrecker Service responded to the scene to assist with clean-up and to tow three of the semis. The Needham Volunteer Fire Department was also called to handle a small HAZMAT spill from the engine, transmission fluids and leaking fuel from the semis.
This is an ongoing investigation and there is no further information available at this time. Preliminary charges are merely probable cause to arrest and hold a suspect, all parties involved are considered innocent until proven guilty in court.
Investigation Officer: Trooper Nathan Parton
Assisting Agencies: Johnson County Sheriff's Department, Franklin Police Department, Needham Fire Department, INDOT, Grahms Wrecker Service
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