Local News
Several Crashes Involving Estimated 40-50 Vehicles at Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge in Louisiana
The full extent of their injuries is still unknown.
A major series of crashes involving an estimated 40-50 vehicles forced the closure of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge in both directions early Tuesday morning (Dec. 17).
Officials attribute the chain-reaction collisions to dense fog that blanketed the area, drastically reducing visibility and creating treacherous driving conditions.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene shortly after the initial crash reports and remain actively involved in assisting those impacted.
According to EMS sources, multiple injuries have been reported, and several individuals have been transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The full extent of their injuries is still unknown.
One of the largest accidents occurred near mile marker 18, where at least 11 vehicles were involved.
Another significant crash further south included three vehicles.
Harrowing footage captured from the bridge shows vehicles severely mangled and piled together in a chaotic scene, underscoring the scale and devastation of the incident.
Authorities estimate that it could take several hours to clear the wreckage and reopen the bridge safely.
Crews are working diligently to remove damaged vehicles and debris, but officials anticipate the bridge will remain closed until at least this afternoon.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge and seek alternate routes for the remainder of the day. Law enforcement and emergency management officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are advising drivers to exercise extreme caution in foggy conditions.
Further updates on the cause of the crashes, traffic conditions, and the status of the injured are expected as the investigation progresses.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. โ A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.