PADUCAH, KY (Feb. 23, 2022) – A significant multi-vehicle accident has shut down Interstate 24 westbound near the 30-mile marker at the Tennessee River Bridge. Emergency responders and Kentucky State Police are currently at the scene, managing the complex situation involving multiple vehicles, including numerous semi-trucks. While one eastbound lane is open, allowing traffic to slowly pass through the area, both westbound lanes remain completely blocked.
The accident involved a total of 11 vehicles, with a significant portion being semi-trucks – eight in total. Adding to the complexity, one of the semi-trucks was transporting cattle, and approximately two dozen animals escaped into the median following the collision. Authorities initially reported that all cattle were accounted for, but ongoing checks are still being conducted to ensure no animals remain unaccounted for.
This major incident occurred on I-24 between Exit 27 at U.S. 62 Calvert City Interchange and Exit 31 at KY 453 Grand Rivers Interchange, situated at the Marshall-Livingston County Line. A dedicated crash reconstruction team has already completed their initial investigation, which has facilitated the removal of some vehicles from the accident site. However, the vehicle recovery team is still actively working to remove the remaining semi-trucks, a process expected to take considerable time due to their size and position.
Traffic Alert for I-24 Multi-Vehicle Accident at Tennessee River Bridge
Current estimates suggest that full clearance of the westbound lanes is not expected for at least another two hours, projecting a reopening time of approximately 10:30 a.m., CST. Westbound traffic is being diverted at Exit 31. Motorists are instructed to take KY 453 South and then U.S. 62 West to rejoin I-24 at Exit 27. Significant delays are anticipated along this detour route, and drivers are advised to factor in extra travel time.
To reiterate, both westbound lanes of I-24 are still blocked at the 30-mile marker due to this major multi-vehicle accident. Eastbound traffic is experiencing slow movement with only one lane open. Motorists in the area are urged to exercise extreme caution and be prepared for considerable delays.
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