Traffic
1. Lake County, IN Traffic: I-65 Closed After Pedestrian Fatality Early Saturday
Merrillville, IN – Drivers traveling through Northwest Indiana faced a major disruption early Saturday after a fatal incident involving a pedestrian shut down all northbound lanes of Interstate 65 nea
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-09-26T14:38:22.240Z
Merrillville, IN – Drivers traveling through Northwest Indiana faced a major disruption early Saturday after a fatal incident involving a pedestrian shut down all northbound lanes of Interstate 65 near 61st Avenue.
According to Indiana State Police's Lowell Post, all lanes of northbound I 65 north of 61st Avenue were blocked following the fatality. Police announced the closure overnight into early Saturday.
Authorities advised motorists already traveling north on I 65 to exit at 61st Avenue. Drivers could also use U.S. 30 and Broadway as an alternate route to avoid the closure.
State police said there was no timetable for reopening the interstate when the initial traffic notice was issued. Drivers heading through Merrillville and Lake County toward Gary and the Chicago area could encounter delays while authorities remain at the scene.
The circumstances surrounding the pedestrian fatality were not immediately detailed in the initial announcement. Police did not identify the person who died or provide information about how the incident occurred.
Motorists should avoid the affected stretch of I 65 if the closure remains in effect and allow additional travel time. Drivers approaching the area should also watch for stopped or slowing traffic as vehicles divert onto nearby roads.
Because the initial Indiana State Police notice did not provide an estimated reopening time, travelers should check current road conditions before entering the area. Additional information about the fatal incident could be released as the investigation continues.