Deadly Crash Closes I-10 Eastbound in Phoenix
Early this morning, a serious crash involving three vehicles forced a partial closure of the I-10 eastbound freeway in Phoenix, causing major disruptions during the typically busy morning commute. The incident occurred near the stack interchange, where the I-10 meets the I-17, a critical junction for many drivers traveling through the city.
Vehicles Involved and Immediate Impact
The crash involved a white BMW, a blue SUV, and a semi-truck. All three vehicles sustained visible damage, indicating a significant collision. Authorities responded quickly, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) began their investigation on site while the semi-truck driver remained present to provide information. Unfortunately, at least one person lost their life as a result of the crash, though the total number of injured individuals taken to the hospital has not yet been confirmed.
The crash’s severity prompted the immediate closure of the I-10 eastbound freeway just before the stack interchange. Initially, drivers were being directed off at the I-17 offramp, but as the situation unfolded, the exit point was moved back to 27th Avenue. This diversion forced commuters onto surface streets, causing widespread traffic congestion.
Traffic Backup and Delays
The I-10 eastbound stretch coming from the West Valley is known as the busiest section of freeway in the entire Phoenix valley system. Shutting it down at any time results in significant delays, but doing so during the morning rush amplified the problem. Traffic backups extended as far as 59th Avenue, with brake lights visible even near 75th Avenue, indicating the depth of congestion caused by the closure.
Traffic cameras operated by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) showed long lines of vehicles backed up as the freeway remained blocked for the ongoing investigation and cleanup efforts. The scene of the crash was still active hours after the accident, prolonging the disruption.
Alternate Routes Suggested
With the freeway closed and traffic forced onto surface streets, officials urged commuters to avoid the affected area if possible. Drivers coming in from the west side of the valley were advised to exit the I-10 early, near the 202 freeway. From there, they could use local roads such as Van Buren and Buckeye to navigate into downtown Phoenix.
For those traveling through northern routes, alternative options included using McDowell or Thomas roads and then connecting with the I-17 southbound, eventually picking up Jefferson or Buckeye roads to reach downtown. These detours, while longer, were recommended to help ease some of the congestion caused by the freeway closure.
Ongoing Investigation and Recovery
Authorities remained on the scene throughout the morning, conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. The driver of the semi-truck cooperated with DPS officers, providing necessary information to aid their inquiry. Cleanup efforts were underway but had not yet cleared the accident site by mid-morning.
Officials emphasized the importance of patience and caution for drivers in the area, reminding them to follow detours and be mindful of emergency personnel working at the scene. Updates on when the freeway would reopen were to be provided as the situation developed.
Impact on Phoenix Commuters
The closure of the I-10 eastbound during a peak travel time had a ripple effect across the city’s traffic system. The I-10 corridor is a vital artery for thousands of commuters daily, linking residential areas in the west valley with downtown Phoenix and other key destinations. Disruptions here not only delay individual drivers but also affect public transit schedules, deliveries, and emergency response routes.
This crash served as a stark reminder of the fragility of urban traffic flows and how one incident can cascade into widespread inconvenience and, tragically, loss of life. Authorities and traffic experts continue to monitor the area to prevent further complications and to restore normal traffic conditions as quickly and safely as possible.
