THP Launches Fireworks Investigation

The THP launched an investigation after what looked like an unexpected fireworks show along Interstate 75 Saturday could have had far more serious consequences.

After a trailer carrying fireworks caught fire and sent fireworks exploding in every direction, the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division, conducted a post-incident inspection and discovered multiple violations involving the transportation of hazardous materials. 

The inspection found the carrier was transporting fireworks without several federally required safety measures. Violations included:
• No current hazardous materials registration.
• No emergency response information for first responders.
• No hazardous materials shipping papers.
• No placards identifying the hazardous cargo.
• The driver did not have the required hazardous materials endorsement.
• No USDOT number, when required. 

The driver was cited for no hazmat endorsement, identified during the inspection. 

The inspection findings have been documented and referred through the appropriate regulatory channels for further review. Additional enforcement action, including potential federal penalties, will be determined by the appropriate regulatory authorities.