BARRHAVEN – A truck carrying a mobile crane burst in to flames after toppling in to a ditch and igniting a natural gas mainline early this morning (Oct. 31).

“At approximately 7 a.m., Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) received multiple calls for a commercial vehicle on fire,” the OFS released in a statement today. “While initial reports claimed it was a cement pump truck, it was later confirmed to be a large mobile crane.”

The driver of the crane rolled over into the ditch on Fallowfield Road at Moodie Drive hitting a gas meter, which sparked and caught fire. To complicate matters, this area of the ditch housed a natural gas mainline. The natural gas ignited immediately once the crane hit, causing an explosion soon after. The flames from that explosion damaged the overhead hydro lines, affecting power in the area.

“Upon arrival, firefighters quickly secured the area and engaged in a defensive attack, protecting a large-capacity diesel storage tank at a nearby gas station,” the OFS said. “The gas station and nearby storage facility were evacuated as a precaution.”

Once Enbridge Gas arrived on scene, firefighters escorted them to shut off the main gas supply. With the gas shut off, firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the remaining hot spots.

The driver of the crane sustained moderate injuries including burns to his face and body and was transported to hospital by Ottawa Paramedics.

“We would like to thank the following agencies who collaborated with us to manage this incident: Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Enbridge, Ottawa Hydro,” the OFS said. “Our work together is based on trust, cooperation and a group commitment to service excellence and safety.”