News release

Clarenville RCMP investigating crash that resulted in ongoing TCH closure

January 20, 2026 - Clarenville, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

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Clarenville RCMP is investigating a single-vehicle crash involving a commercial tractor tanker trailer unit on Monday that resulted in significant damages to the South West River bridge west of Clarenville. Due to the extent of the damage, the Trans-Canada Highway remains closed between Routes 230 and 233 until further notice, with a detour available to drivers traveling in the area.

At approximately 11:43 a.m. on January 19, 2026, Clarenville RCMP and RCMP Traffic Services East responded to a single vehicle crash on the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) between Port Blandford and the Bonavista Highway junction. The crash caused extensive damage to the South West River bridge, as the trailer separated from its tractor and landed in the river below.

The driver of the vehicle sustained what are believed to be non-life threatening injuries. He was transported by NL Health Services emergency medical services personnel to Dr. G.B. Cross Memorial Hospital in Clarenville for medical assessment and treatment.

A second commercial vehicle collided with debris on the bridge deck after the crash, but that driver was not injured.

For the safety of all motorists, the Trans-Canada Highway will remain in the area closed until further notice. The Departments of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change and Transportation and Infrastructure are on scene to facilitate the safe recovery of the submerged tanker trailer and so structural engineers can properly assess the integrity of the bridge structure.

A detour is available to drivers traveling in the area: westbound motorists will exit at Route 230 (Bonavista Highway) and use Route 233 through Musgravetown back to the Trans-Canada Highway. Eastbound access will be via Route 233 at Port Blanford, using Route 230 to rejoin the TCH. 

Motorists are thanked for their continued caution and patience during the closure.

The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. 

RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador also thanks NL Health Services, Clarenville Fire Department and Port Blanford Volunteer Fire Department for their assistance at the scene, SafetyNL for their support with the ongoing road closures and officials with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for their assistance with the investigation. 

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