A tragic accident on the A4 near Cologne claimed the life of a truck driver early Friday morning.

The collision occurred when a 40-ton truck crashed into a stationary vehicle on the shoulder near Merzenich, reportedly due to a blown tire.

The impact caused one truck to burst into flames, leaving the driver trapped and unable to escape.

Emergency responders recovered the victim from the burned-out cab, but their identity remains unknown.

The other driver was unharmed.

The A4 towards Olpe is expected to remain closed between Merzenich and Elsdorf until Friday evening, with damages estimated in the six-figure range.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.