Police: Tractor-trailer driver fell asleep at wheel, crashed into N.H. turnpike construction zone

The investigation is ongoing.

The driver of a tractor-trailer allegedly fell asleep at the wheel before crashing into a highway construction zone in Merrimack, N.H. over the weekend.

New Hampshire State Police said the driver, a resident of Rhode Island, was driving a Ross Express truck on F.E. Everett Turnpike on Saturday when he fell asleep, crashing around 2:20 a.m. into the construction zone about a mile south of the Bedford Toll Plaza. He allegedly drifted into the right breakdown lane, striking sand barrels and then driving over the temporary barriers, where the truck became stuck.

The driver was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries, according to police.

The right lane of the turnpike’s southbound side was shut down for about three hours as the scene was cleared, police said.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or who has more information about the incident is being asked to contact investigators at [email protected] or at (603) 223-4381.