Interstate 71 has been shut down in both directions following a fatal crash that occurred on April 11, 2026, at 6:27 p.m. in Delaware County, Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed that at least one person was killed in the incident, which involved twelve vehicles, including a semi truck.
Emergency responders transported three individuals to local hospitals with injuries. The crash took place near the U.S. 36 and state Route 37 interchange, an area currently under construction for the Sunbury Parkway interchange project.
Traffic was backed up for several miles as authorities worked to clear the scene and investigate the cause of the crash. Witnesses reported seeing vehicles running into each other and coming towards the median, indicating the chaotic nature of the incident.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact number of fatalities, and the conditions of the injured individuals have not been disclosed. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing challenges of road safety, especially in construction zones where traffic patterns can change rapidly. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and cautious when navigating such areas.