Morgantown, West Virginia – Multiple accidents on Interstate 79 in Monongalia County led to the closure of the southbound lanes on Tuesday morning, causing traffic disruptions throughout the county. One driver tragically lost their life in one of the collisions, which involved a Ford Escort, a Mack truck, and a West Virginia Courtesy Patrol Vehicle near the Westover interchange.
According to the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, the sedan involved in the accident lost control on a bridge and was subsequently struck by the Mack truck. While the driver of the sedan succumbed to their injuries, the drivers of the Mack truck and the Courtesy Patrol Vehicle escaped unharmed. The incident is currently under investigation, with no names being released at this time.
The closure of I-79 southbound in Monongalia County caused significant traffic delays, prompting officials to advise caution and warn drivers about icy road conditions. The accidents spanned from Goshen Road to the Star City exit, resulting in slow-moving traffic in the area.
After several hours of closure, I-79 has since been reopened as reported by WV511.org data. However, motorists are urged to check traffic conditions on I-79 before embarking on their journey to ensure a safe and smooth commute throughout Monongalia County.
The accidents serve as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, especially during hazardous road conditions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary, emphasizing the need for vigilance and caution on the roads to prevent further tragedies.
This developing story will be updated with any new information or developments as they unfold. Stay tuned for more details on the accidents that impacted traffic flow on I-79 in Monongalia County.