Earlier today, travelers heading south on Interstate 75 encountered delays and diversions around Rocky Top, Tennessee, following a multivehicle crash near mile marker 128. According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the incident involving three vehicles, including two commercial vehicles and a passenger car, necessitated the closure of the southbound lanes. WBIR reported that the wreck, which occurred at around 2 a.m., also led to a fire.
Traffic was quickly rerouted at Exit 129 as officials addressed the situation. TDOT spokesperson Mark Nagi was cited by WVLT stating that the aftermath of the crash would cause the southbound lane to be closed near Rocky Top. Further details, including an expected timeline for reopening the roadway, were not immediately available, as cleanup and investigation efforts were to likely extend well into the day.
The diversion created heavy traffic and potential delays for drivers navigating through the area. Updates from TDOT's SmartWay Map, highlighted by WATE, indicated the initial report of the crash came in just before the 2 a.m. hour. The ensuing hours saw the development of an extended closure and detour as authorities to carefully manage the aftermath and the flow of oncoming vehicles.
Authorities have not released information on potential injuries or the causes behind the collision. Amid the ongoing closures, TDOT has neither provided a definitive time for when I-75 South will reopen, as the collision's circumstances remain under an active investigation. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes and to stay informed on the latest traffic updates to avoid further disruptions to their travel plans. As of 6 a.m., the blockage was still in effect with no immediate resolution in sight, according to the same WATE report.
