Marshalls Creek Explosion, June 26, 1964
Middle Smithfield Township, Monroe County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
On June 26, 1964, a burning tractor trailer exploded here, killing six people, including three Marshalls Creek fire-fighters, and injuring thirteen others. It was later determined that the trailer contained explosives but had no identifying placards. The incident helped lead to the creation of the 1974 U.S. Transportation Safety Act, setting stricter federal regulations on the transport of hazardous materials.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
On June 26, 1964, a burning tractor-trailer parked along the road here suddenly exploded, killing six people—among them three Marshalls Creek volunteer firefighters who had rushed to the blaze—and injuring thirteen more. Investigators later found the truck had been hauling explosives with no placards to warn responders of the danger. The tragedy fed a national push for reform that helped bring about the 1974 Transportation Safety Act and its stricter rules for shipping hazardous materials.
Why it matters
The sacrifice at Marshalls Creek helped drive the federal hazardous-materials safety laws that still protect firefighters and communities across the country today.
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Related events
- · Marshalls Creek Explosion of 1964
Themes & tags
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