NATION : Ammo Truck Explodes; 1 Killed

A truck hauling 40,000 rounds of military aircraft ammunition caught fire on an interstate highway early today, killing a woman and critically injuring her companion, authorities said.

Hours after the fire broke out, the northbound lanes of Interstate 17 were still closed as shells continued to explode. The accident happened in a remote area, and no one had to be evacuated, officials said.

“We know there was a man and a woman in the vehicle; we believe they were husband and wife,” Public Safety Sgt. Allan Schmidt said. “Somehow, the (man) was either thrown free or got out.”