Manteno, IL – Drivers in northern Kankakee County are facing significant delays this morning after a multi-vehicle crash blocked portions of Interstate 57 near the 321 mile marker, according to the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to reports of a crash in the northbound lanes of I-57 near Manteno shortly after the alert was posted Wednesday morning. Officials said multiple vehicles were involved, and early reports indicate at least one lane is blocked as emergency crews work to clear the highway.
Authorities have not released details on whether anyone was injured, and no timeline has been provided on when the roadway is expected to fully reopen. Drivers heading toward Will County or the Chicago metro area should be prepared for stop-and-go traffic and possible extended delays.
The sheriff’s office is urging motorists to avoid the area if possible and find alternate routes. Those traveling northbound may consider exiting before Manteno and using Illinois Route 50 or local roadways to bypass the slowdown. Traffic backups along this stretch of I-57 are common during major incidents, especially during morning commute hours.
I-57 is one of the primary corridors connecting Kankakee County with the southern Chicago suburbs, and any blockage can quickly affect travel between Manteno, Peotone, and surrounding communities. Drivers on the interstate reported brake lights stretching for miles as emergency personnel worked the crash scene.
More information is expected as the investigation continues and lanes begin to reopen.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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