A lorry driver was pinned and trapped in his cab for nearly four hours following a crash on the A339 near Alton. Emergency crews responded swiftly after a local resident heard a loud smash and the driver calling for help.
Police from Whitchurch’s Hampshire Roads Policing unit closed the A339 in both directions shortly after 1pm on Tuesday, September 26th. The closure covers the stretch between The Avenue and Whitedown Lane, with diversions now in place for motorists.
Officials have warned that the road could remain shut until 7.15pm as rescue efforts continue at the scene.
The rescue operation was complex, involving firefighters from Eastleigh, Basingstoke, and Alton, alongside the Hampshire and Isle of Wight air ambulance and a paramedic team from South Central Ambulance Service. Due to the lorry’s unstable position and the fact it was loaded with sand, Hampshire Fire and Rescue deployed their Urban Search and Rescue team to safely free the trapped driver.
Police have urged drivers to avoid the area. A spokesperson said, “We’re currently dealing with an overturned lorry on the A339 at Shalden. The road is impassable due to the position of the lorry and the road has therefore had to be closed.”
One person has been injured in the crash. Emergency services remain on site, advising motorists to take alternative routes to prevent delays.
Originally published by UKNIP.
