Fair Oaks, IN – A fatal crash involving three semi-trucks shut down all southbound lanes of Interstate 65 near Exit 220 early Tuesday morning, causing major traffic disruptions in northwest Indiana.
According to the Indiana State Police Lowell Post, the crash occurred just before 5 a.m. near the State Road 14 (Fair Oaks) Exit. One of the semis involved caught fire while carrying peat moss, a material known to reignite, complicating efforts by fire crews to fully extinguish the flames.
As of Tuesday morning, there is no timeline for reopening the southbound lanes. Crews are continuing to remove the damaged vehicles, and motorists are being diverted at Exit 220. Drivers are advised to use U.S. 41 or U.S. 231 as alternative routes.
Authorities confirmed at least one fatality, though further details about the victim have not yet been released. The fire and crash scene remain active as investigators work to determine the cause of the collision.
The closure is expected to impact traffic throughout the day. Motorists traveling through Newton and Jasper counties should plan for extended delays and watch for updates from Indiana State Police and local news outlets.
Additional information is expected to be released later Tuesday.
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