(Minden, Iowa) – The driver of a semi tractor-trailer was seriously injured during a crash off eastbound Interstate 80 east of the Minden Exit this (Thursday) morning. The accident occurred at around 7:45-a.m. A spokesman for the Iowa State Patrol says the semi went off the interstate in between the two bridges over Keg Creek, taking out the wire barrier and a guardrail, according to initial dispatch reports. The rig continued down into the creek, before coming to rest. The driver – who was not immediately identified – was trapped in the cab of the semi until emergency crews were able to free him.

Iowa DOT traffic cam near the Minden exit (earlier this morning)

He was transported from the scene by air ambulance to a hospital in Omaha, Nebraska for treatment of serious injuries. A small fuel spill was reported. The Patrol closed both lanes of traffic and instituted a detour route, while emergency crews were on the scene. The roadway has since re-opened. The semi was carrying baked goods.

The Iowa State Patrol continues to investigate what caused the crash.