A devastating collision on I-485 north of Charlotte has claimed one life and left another individual in critical condition this Friday morning. Sources report that the multi-vehicle accident involved two tractor-trailers, one of which was a tanker truck, and resulted in the shut down of both directions of interstate traffic near exits for Mallard Creek Road and Prosperity Church Road. According to WBTV, the calamity occurred around 7:30 a.m and images from the scene depict substantial damage to the involved vehicles.
WSOC-TV has reported that MEDIC confirmed one fatality at the site of the crash. Furthermore, a victim was airlifted to receive desperate medical attention. Four others were evaluated on-site but declined to be transported to the hospital.
The Charlotte Fire Department responded to the chaotic scene and is among the multiple emergency crews working diligently to manage the aftermath. The interstate blockage has caused significant traffic delays, with WCNC indicating that the road was not expected to reopen until well into the afternoon.
North Carolina State Highway Patrol is also present, investigating the chain of events that led up to the accident. DriveNC anticipated that the road closure would last until approximately 12:40 p.m., as crews work to clear thoroughly and safely the area. This event underscores yet again the fragility of life and the persistent potential for sudden tragedy on the nation's highways.
