The truck was heading down Donnelly Hollowell Road, the former Bankhead Highway, in northwest Atlanta, when the driver lost control and went off the road. Police believe vandals were throwing chunks of concrete and fireworks at the truck, causing it to crash. Atlanta fire officials say as many as 50 people were found climbing on the wrecked truck when firefighters arrived.
"There were actually people jumping up and down or actually on top of this overturned tanker, just like you'd see in the movies," Jolene Butts-Freeman, with the Atlanta Fire Department tells WSB's Richard Sangster.
Police say the accident occurred about 2 this morning when the driver swerved, apparently to avoid chunks of concrete that were being thrown by juveniles. He suffered head injuries and was taken to Grady Hospital.
The tanker was carrying 7500 gallons of diesel fuel, but only about 20 gallons spilled.
Nearby apartments were evacuated as precaution, as fire officials feared a possible explosion.
Another truck was struck by concrete during the overnight hours, but with less serious consequences. Police say, in that case, a window on the truck was shattered.
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