A major incident on Interstate 40 at the 367 Mile Marker has led to a complete shutdown in both directions earlier today, following a catastrophic multi-vehicle accident that resulted in multiple fatalities. The Loudon County Sheriff's Office alerted the public via a social media post, cautioning drivers about the closure and advising them to seek alternative routes due to the expectation of a prolonged closure.
Specific details regarding the collision have yet to be released, but the aftermath was severe enough to warrant the landing of a Lifestar helicopter directly in the westbound lane to transport at least one critically injured patient. Traffic was able to move again around 1:20 PM on the westbound side, while eastbound lanes remained impaired with no clear indication of when they would be reopened to vehicular passage.
The scene prompted a significant response from multiple agencies. According to the Loudon County Sheriff's Office, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Loudon County Fire/Rescue, Priority Ambulance Service, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation, along with other first responders, were on site. While the investigation is ongoing, further updates are pending. In the meantime, drivers are urged to exercise caution and follow law enforcement instructions during the investigation and recovery process.
