A dump truck hauling scrap metal from Warren to Lawrence counties dealt a blow to unsuspecting motorists Monday when state police say it lost some of its load, causing flat tires along the way.

The exact number of blown out tires is unclear as authorities are apparently still awaiting to hear from victims.

Police said they began their investigation after Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program officers found ”multiple vehicles” pulled off the road with flattened tires.

Troopers from stations in Warren, Franklin in Venango County and New Castle, according to a police report, connected the punctured tires to a truck from McClymonds Supply & Transit Co. of Butler County.

It was determined, police said, that while traveling south and west the truck was “losing its load” over a four-county area — Warren, Venango, Mercer and Lawrence counties.

The load was described as “small pieces of scrap metal.”

The accidental debris dumping happened between 8 a.m. and noon on Route 62 south, Route 6 west, Route 227 south, Route 8 south, Interstate 80 West, Interstate 79 south and Route 422 west.

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation workers helped police clean up the debris.

Any motorists who suffered flat tires in the incident are advised to contact Clint Hancox of McClymonds at 724-368-8040.

Hancox on Tuesday acknowledged he has received “a few calls” about punctured tires but he declined further comment.