Tractor-trailer overturn causes gas leak, downed wires along 54A in Yates County

Emergency crews responded to a serious tractor-trailer rollover Friday night on state Route 54A in the town of Jerusalem, according to the Yates County Sheriff’s Office.

The accident, which occurred around 11:40 p.m., involved a tractor-trailer driven by Alexei Vlad Plavan, 66, of Virginia. Authorities say Plavan was traveling at an unsafe speed on Italy Hill when he failed to stop at the intersection with Guyanoga Road. The truck went through the intersection and attempted to turn onto State Route 54A, but both the truck and trailer overturned, officials said.

The overturned vehicle hit the gas pumps at a local business, causing a major gas leak and downing power lines in the area. Emergency personnel from multiple agencies, including Yates County Ambulance, Branchport and Keuka Park Fire Departments, and the New York State Department of Transportation, were dispatched to the scene to manage the hazardous conditions. Cleanup efforts are still ongoing.

Plavan, who suffered head injuries in the crash, was taken to the Soldiers and Mariners Hospital for treatment. Charges related to the crash are pending, according to the sheriff’s office.

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