Truck driver dies in Smoky Canyon crash

UPDATE: 8-4
The Caribou County Sheriff’s Office has identified the driver of the 1982 Peterbilt refueling truck as Brandon Astlle,39, of Rigby.

Original Story:

Despite efforts to save him, a commercial truck driver died in a rollover crash at the Smoky Canyon Mine haul road at about 12:10 p.m. Friday. The driver has not been identified, pending notification of relatives.

Caribou and Lincoln County Fire and EMS were called to find the vehicle on fire. The fire was quickly extinguished and emergency crews worked to rescue the driver. But, according to the Sheriff’s Office, the driver died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.

Investigators said the refueling truck was attempting to drive down a steep hill. The driver lost control and the truck left the road, overturning as it rolled down a steep embankment. A small hazardous materials spill was quickly contained.

The accident is under investigation by the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office and Mine Safety and Health Administration.