HOWE TWP., Pa. (EYT) — According to Marienville-based State Police, a tractor-trailer crash occurred on Tuesday afternoon on State Route 66, in Howe Township, Forest County.

Police say a 2018 Mack tractor-trailer was traveling southbound on State Route 66, near Watson Farm Road, when the operator — 38-year-old Ibrahi Mahamat Al Fatih, of Mars, Pa. — for an unknown reason, lost control of the vehicle and traveled across the oncoming lane and off the roadway.

The tractor-trailer began to jackknife and struck a tree. The tank-trailer of the vehicle overturned in the process of the crash, and the cab of the unit caught fire.

Mahat Al Fatih was transported to UPMC Mercy for injuries of unknown severity.

Marienville Volunteer Fire Department, Farmington Volunteer Fire Company, Clarion Hospital Ambulance, and Bauer Truck Repair were dispatched to the scene.

LifeFlight was also called.

Sarah Lutz of Lucinda witnessed the accident.

“It was scary to watch,” said Lutz. “It was the craziest thing I’ve ever seen.”

Lutz, who was traveling behind the tanker truck on her way home from work, said the truck was traveling southbound and swerving across the double-yellow lines before it left the roadway and crashed into a tree.

“It instantly went up in flames,” said Lutz. “I never knew it could actually happen that fast. I could hear (the driver) screaming.”

Lutz immediately attempted to dial 9-1-1 but was unable to do so due to lack of cellular service. She then ran to a nearby location and proceeded to call for help.

Sources on the scene say the driver, who was able to exit the vehicle, appeared to be conscious and alert following the crash.

The roadway remained closed for over two hours.

Sheffield Fire Department, Sigel Fire Department, James City Fire Department, and Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department were on standby.

(Video and Photo courtesy Sarah Lutz)