WILMINGTON, Del. (KYW Newsradio) — First responders in Wilmington have suspended the search of the Delaware River for the driver of a tractor truck that went off the Delaware Memorial Bridge early Friday morning. The driver is presumed dead.
Around 3:40 a.m., a bobtail tractor was on the downslope of the bridge heading south into Delaware when it crossed three lanes of traffic and crashed through a concrete wall near the anchorage of the bridge, according to the Delaware River and Bay Authority.
The tractor then plummeted into the Delaware River. A trailer was not attached to it. Police said they have video showing it going off the bridge.
Recovery efforts lasted until around 4:30 p.m. Friday. Officials said they suspended their search because of tide and water conditions. Officials are unsure if there was more than one occupant in the truck. No other vehicles were impacted.
Around 10:15 a.m., crews spotted the tractor in about 20 feet of water and are working to safely approach the area.
Officials said the bridge was not structurally damaged, but two lanes were closed heading into Delaware: The far left lane was closed because of the crash, and the far right lane was closed for construction. All lanes have since reopened.
Search and recovery efforts resumed Saturday at 6 a.m.