A late-night crash involving an 18-wheeler caused major disruptions in Texarkana after the truck veered off the road, took down a major electrical transmission pole, and left a third of the city without power for a period of time.
The incident happened around 11:30 p.m. Monday at the intersection of New Boston Road and Taylor Street. Authorities say the 18-wheeler, hauling a full load of lumber, left the roadway and struck a utility pole, causing a significant power outage in the area. The truck’s cargo spilled across the road, forcing emergency crews to shut down New Boston Road as they worked to clear the debris.
Miraculously, the driver — identified as 39-year-old Fredrick Beal — was not injured in the crash. However, officers arrested Beal at the scene for Driving While Intoxicated (Open Container) and Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon. He was transported to the Bi-State Jail and booked on those charges.
As of this morning, crews are still working to fully clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow in the area. New Boston Road remains closed near the crash site, and officials are asking drivers to avoid the area until further notice.
The power outage affected thousands of residents across Texarkana overnight, though utility crews were able to restore service to most of the city within a few hours.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
