Crown Point, Indiana – An intense multi-vehicle crash on I-65 at the 248 mile-marker brought traffic to a standstill for six agonizing hours Wednesday. The incident occurred just one mile north of the Crown Point exit and involved a tractor-trailer and a tanker semi, setting off a chain reaction of havoc.
Preliminary investigations carried out by State Troopers revealed that the northbound tractor-trailer suddenly veered into the center divider wall, propelling concrete barriers into the southbound lanes. In a tragic turn, a southbound tanker collided with the displaced barriers, causing it to overturn and land in the west ditch. To add to the alarming situation, the tanker was loaded with highly flammable propane.
Fearing a hazardous environment, authorities promptly closed all lanes in both directions of the highway, rerouting traffic via S.R. 2 and U.S. 30. Responding to the emergency, a collaborative effort saw the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), Lake County HAZMAT team, Crown Point Police, and the Crown Point Fire Departments working together to secure the area and assess the risks.
Officials began orchestrating the delicate task of removing the propane-laden tanker from the scene, ensuring the safety of everyone involved. It wasn’t until 6:15 p.m. that all lanes were finally reopened, releasing the bottleneck that had built up throughout the ordeal.
Both truck drivers escaped the ordeal with non-life-threatening injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. At least four other vehicles caught in the accident were not as fortunate and sustained varying degrees of damage.
