An eight-vehicle crash that took place on Interstate 65 in Franklin on Monday evening led to the shutdown of the highway, causing a significant disruption in traffic amidst icy conditions. WSMV reported that the crash happened around 7:30 p.m. with no serious injuries, however, authorities closed the affected section for cleanup and investigation. Commuters were advised to seek alternative routes as the Tennessee Highway Patrol undertook the lead in the inquiry.
Meanwhile, weather woes compounded as several more incidents occurred across the region. A series of crashes took place on Interstate 40, with an overturned vehicle near mile marker 198.6, and another multi-vehicle crash near mile marker 200.8, as detailed by the Tennessee Department of Transportation. These incidents forced authorities to divert traffic, significantly to slow down and allow TDOT crews to treat the slippery surfaces. As per WKRN, icy conditions caused widespread traffic issues, urging drivers to exercise caution.
Further reports from FOX17 described the aftermath of the first snowfall of the year contributing to the hazardous driving conditions. The Franklin Police Department communicated through social media that a stretch of I-65 South just south of the McEwen exit was completely blocked following the collision and remained closed while the investigation into the cause of the crash proceeded. They emphasized the need for motorists to find alternate routes wherever possible.
Franklin police further remarked that a salt truck was en route to the location of the eight-vehicle pileup to "ensure safe passage for drivers stuck in traffic," with the promise to reopen the road post-treatment. The National Weather Service Nashville and the Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure both issued statements, obtained by local media, about the inclement conditions, advising that bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads had become "slick and icy with freezing temperatures." The agencies were actively treating roads to diminish risks for those braving the travel.
As per social media updates from Williamson County Fire Rescue, shared by WKRN, several roads in the county, including North Berry's Chapel Road, were particularly affected by ice. They advised residents to stay indoors if possible or to drive with extreme caution if travel was necessary. Similarly, Cheatham County officials sent out text alerts encouraging care on the roads, specifically on Highway 49 East between Ashland City and Pleasant View, due to hazardous driving conditions.
