After a significant disruption yesterday, eastbound Interstate 94 has now reopened near Michigan Avenue in Dearborn. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) confirmed that the lanes were cleared after a crash involving four semitractor-trailers led to the closure, as described in an article by The Detroit News. The collision, which occurred shortly before 2 p.m., not only included semis but also a passenger car, causing one of the trucks to ignite and another to spill its cargo of steel.

Details emerged that the incident initially stemmed from a bridge strike on eastbound I-94, causing traffic to stop earlier that day. Attempting to navigate around the traffic build-up, drivers found themselves at a standstill as the crash unfolded. The involved trucks suffered heavy damage, with debris and steel rolls scattered across the asphalt, according to images shared by MDOT on X. 

Heads up-EB 94 CLOSED at US-12/Michigan in Dearborn. Crash w 4 semis and fire. Unknown ETA to reopen. pic.twitter.com/0KXQSH08H0

— MDOT - Metro Detroit (@MDOT_MetroDet) August 12, 2024

A statement by MDOT, obtained by WXYZ, confirmed the series of events that led to the roadway's closure for over five hours. The Dearborn Police Department is currently investigating the cause of the crash. While the authorities could not be reached to confirm any injuries at the time, and the Dearborn Police Department was investigating the accident. The Dearborn Fire Department was on the scene addressing the fire and other hazards related to the incident. By just before 9 p.m., MDOT announced that all lanes were back in service.

The closure caused significant backups on the freeway, with congestion reported up to Outer Drive. Serving as a guide through the gridlock, WWJ traffic reporter Scott Ryan suggested that motorists take an alternative route by exiting at Greenfield/Schaefer, taking Michigan Avenue to Wyoming, and rejoining the freeway. According to a report by WWJ Newsradio 950, surface streets in Dearborn were heavily congested, prompting advice for travelers heading into Detroit from the airport to consider routes other than I-94.

The full ramifications of the crash are yet to be disclosed, and no injuries have been officially reported.