Morgantown, West Virginia – Multiple accidents on Interstate 79 in Monongalia County led to the closure of the southbound lanes on a busy Tuesday morning. The incidents caused significant traffic disruptions throughout the county. One driver tragically lost their life in one of the accidents near the Westover interchange, involving a Ford Escort, a Mack truck, and a West Virginia Courtesy Patrol Vehicle.
According to the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, preliminary reports indicate that the sedan lost control on a bridge before being struck by the Mack truck. While the driver of the sedan succumbed to their injuries, the drivers of the Mack truck and Courtesy Patrol Vehicle emerged unscathed. The authorities are currently investigating the incident and have withheld the release of any names associated with the accidents.
The Monongalia County Emergency Management Agency confirmed the closure on the southbound side of I-79 at the Uffington Bridge, with traffic congestion extending from Goshen Road to the Star City exit. The northbound lanes were also experiencing slow-moving traffic. Drivers were advised to exercise caution due to icy road conditions on the interstate.
WV511.org displayed the closure and detailed the slow-moving traffic along I-79 in Monongalia County. Commuters were urged to check the traffic conditions on the website before embarking on their journeys to avoid potential delays. The accidents highlighted the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance while driving in hazardous conditions.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for further details on the incidents and their impact on traffic in the area.