BALTIMORE (WJZ) — A crash involving dozens of vehicles and a tractor-trailer shut down Interstate 95 in South Baltimore Saturday morning.
At least two people were killed and 15 were injured in the icy pileup, three of those seriously.
Emergency crews at the scene said at least 55 vehicles and one tanker were involved in the crash near the exit for Washington Boulevard on I-95 south just before 5 a.m.
Line of tow trucks on 95 exit ramp, waiting to help clear cars. #WJZ @cbsbaltimore pic.twitter.com/1c4Ri6Zrs7
— Devin Bartolotta (@devinbartolotta) December 17, 2016
Traffic was at a stand still for hours while crews assessed the situation. Authorities say the tanker went off the bridge and fell down to the street below.
“We’re asking people that are stranded in their cars at this time, if they would, please shelter in place within your cars, remain warm,” said Baltimore City Fire Chief Roman Clark. “We’re also asking travelers to avoid 95 at all costs.”
Crews from Howard County and Baltimore County were called to the scene to help.
Larry Hogan’s statement on the crash:
“I strongly urge all Marylanders to use common sense and put their safety first by heeding all travel warnings from state and local authorities. Road conditions in many areas of the state are still extremely dangerous, and all those who can avoid travel should stay off the roads until conditions have improved.
“The First Lady and I send our deepest condolences and prayers to the families and loved ones of the individuals who lost their lives early this morning as a result of fatal accidents. Our state’s entire emergency management, transportation, and law enforcement resources are fully engaged in managing this situation and are working closely with local jurisdictions to provide needed support. I offer my sincerest gratitude to the state and local first responders who are working diligently at the scene of these incidents and who will continue to do so until the roadways are clear.”
JUST IN: 55 cars confirmed in this pileup, 40 still on the roadway as of noon. Emergency management on scene. #WJZ @cbsbaltimore pic.twitter.com/fBdFYWdV9v
— Devin Bartolotta (@devinbartolotta) December 17, 2016
Mayor Catherine Pugh gave a statement on the incident:
I want to share my deepest condolences to those affected by this morning’s multi-vehicle crash. Today’s icy road conditions remind us all that it is imperative to exercise extreme caution due to severe weather. I want to thank the emergency crews for their expedient response. They continue to work closely with City agencies to render aid and coordinate efforts to stabilize road conditions for motorists. For the latest updates and information, please follow the Baltimore City Department of Transportation. We ask that residents delay travel if possible.
Dozens of mangled cars still blocking 95. We are near Washington Boulevard. #WJZ @CBSbaltimore pic.twitter.com/1txC1RMdAc
— Devin Bartolotta (@devinbartolotta) December 17, 2016
I believe that the idiocy of drivers who wreck in icy conditions reflects greatly on the attention span of amerikans.
Every December the same weather comes and they drive like it’s May.
Hell, now that I really think about it, in May they’re completely distracted, unaware, self-important and otherwise brain dead too.
Won’t be any real change until a there’s a REALLY big f’g pileup.
I have observed that the sheeple expect to go the posted speed limit or faster all year long. The sheeple expect the State to provide smooth dry roads all year long. All those collisions are not the fault of the driver. All those collisions are the fault of the general population and the State for not providing enough tax money to keep the roads clear and dry.