Local News
Serious incident occurring on Lake Pontchartrain Causeway bridge
A significant incident on the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the world’s longest bridge over water, caused the closure of its northbound lanes on Saturday morning.
The bridge, which connects New Orleans to the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, was shut down after reports of an emergency surfaced.
Serious incident occurring on Lake Pontchartrain Causeway bridgehttps://t.co/OO8tJtJJut pic.twitter.com/zX5XVYKoXy— News Channel3 Now (@newschannel3now) November 16, 2024
The Causeway Commission issued an alert at approximately 11:40 a.m., notifying the public about the lane closure due to what was described as a “serious incident.”
Officials initially estimated the closure would last about an hour, though further updates were not immediately available.
Photos and videos captured by onlookers at the scene showed towering flames and thick black smoke rising from the bridge. Motorists were seen standing outside their vehicles, observing the incident as traffic came to a standstill.
Authorities have not released specific details about the nature of the incident or whether there were any injuries. Emergency responders are actively managing the scene, and an investigation is underway.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes until further notice. Updates from the Causeway Commission are expected as the situation develops.
A dramatic plane crash unfolded in Victoria, Texas, on Wednesday afternoon when a small aircraft struck at least three vehicles while descending onto a busy highway. Authorities are investigating the incident, which occurred shortly after 3 p.m.
The crash happened at the intersection of Zac Lentz Parkway and Mockingbird Lane.
Victoria police were dispatched immediately following reports of the accident. Initial footage from the scene captured the moment the plane collided with three vehicles on the highway, causing significant damage.
At this time, authorities have not confirmed the number or severity of injuries sustained by the occupants of the vehicles or the plane. Emergency response teams were on-site assessing the situation and providing medical assistance.
The intersection of Zac Lentz Parkway and Mockingbird Lane has been closed indefinitely as investigators examine the crash site. Traffic in the area is being diverted to alleviate congestion caused by the closure.
The timing of the crash coincided with the release of students from Victoria East High School, located nearby. Parents were notified that school pickup might be delayed due to the diverted traffic.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the crash or whether mechanical failure, pilot error, or other factors contributed to the incident.
Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to join the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The crash has prompted significant concern among local residents, particularly given its proximity to a busy school zone. Police have urged motorists to avoid the area and follow detours until further notice.
As details continue to emerge, officials will provide updates on the condition of those involved and the ongoing investigation into the crash.