One year after a tragic crash that destroyed a bridge along I-95 in Philadelphia, federal investigators have released a report attributing the incident to an unsecured hatch on a gasoline delivery tanker. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) issued an "origin and cause" report, stating that the accident was most likely sparked by gasoline escaping from an open manhole on the overturned tanker.

Video evidence reviewed by investigators revealed that the cover of a 16-inch manhole had been left open when driver Nathaniel Moody, 53, arrived at a station in Wilmington, Delaware, to refill the tank. Shockingly, it had not been properly secured when Moody proceeded to drive 42 miles away to deliver the fuel to a convenience store.

According to the ATF report, as the tanker overturned, nearly 2,500 gallons of mixed gasoline and ethanol started to spill out from the unsecured hatch. The leaked fuel ignited, causing the fire that ultimately led to the collapse of a section of the bridge near Cottman Avenue and State Road. The resulting flames and smoke forced local authorities to close a portion of I-95.

Moody, an experienced owner-operator with a commercial driver's license since 2003, tragically lost his life in the accident. Fox 29 Philly reported that his cause of death was determined to be "blunt trauma of head and inhalation and thermal injuries," with the manner of death ruled as an accident.

In the aftermath of the investigation, Moody's cousin, Isaac Moody, who is also a truck driver, expressed his frustration with truckers being unfairly blamed in accidents. He stated, "It's so easy for them to throw the blame on the trucker in almost every accident that happens. As soon as a trucker cannot defend themselves, they find all kinds of stuff."

The release of the ATF's report sheds light on the critical importance of adhering to proper safety measures when handling hazardous materials. It serves as a reminder to all truck drivers and transportation companies to prioritize safety protocols and ensure the secure transport of dangerous substances.

Authorities are now evaluating the circumstances surrounding the accident and considering possible actions to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.