I-71 Shut Down following Fiery Crash in Delaware County
Both northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 71 were closed Saturday evening after a severe multi-vehicle accident at the US-36/SR-37 interchange.
The crash occurred around 6:27 p.m. and involved a total of 12 vehicles, including a semi-truck, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Authorities reported that the collision led to a fire at the scene, intensifying the situation and prompting a full closure of the interstate.
Emergency responders transported three individuals to nearby hospitals. Their conditions have not yet been released.
A witness, Carissa Shaw, described the incident as shocking and chaotic. She recalled seeing a semi-truck traveling northbound collide with multiple vehicles before veering toward the median.
“I watched the semi crashing into cars and heading toward the median beside me. Flames suddenly erupted into the air,” Shaw said. “It felt surreal, like everything was happening in slow motion. People rushed to help a red car near me, but the driver’s side was completely crushed.”
The Ohio Department of Transportation is advising motorists to avoid the area and use alternate routes as crews continue to manage the aftermath of the crash.
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