Fiery Accident, Jasper County, IND — A deadly multi-vehicle crash involving three semi-trucks late Monday night has caused ongoing traffic disruptions along Interstate 65 in northwest Indiana. According to the Indiana State Police (ISP), the fiery collision occurred in the southbound lanes near Exit 220 to State Road 14, just before midnight.
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, ISP confirmed that one person was killed in the incident. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim or clarified their role in the collision.
Hazardous Cargo Complicates Response
One of the semi-trucks involved was carrying peat moss, a highly flammable organic material that kept reigniting during the overnight response effort, further complicating cleanup operations. Firefighters and hazmat crews remained on scene into the early morning hours to extinguish flare-ups and secure the area.
“The peat moss posed a challenge,” a trooper at the scene said. “Every time we thought it was under control, it reignited.”
Major Morning Delays
As of Tuesday morning, southbound traffic on I-65 remains closed at Exit 220, with no official timeline for reopening. Morning commuters faced heavy delays, with significant backups reported during peak travel hours.
Motorists are being advised to use U.S. 41 or U.S. 231 as alternate routes while cleanup and investigation efforts continue.
Ongoing Investigation
The Indiana State Police are still working to determine what led to the crash. All three vehicles involved were significantly damaged, and investigators are reviewing evidence from the scene as well as potential witness accounts.
No additional injuries have been confirmed at this time, and authorities are expected to provide more information as the investigation progresses.
Public Advisory
Drivers in the area should continue to monitor real-time traffic updates and expect delays in and around Jasper County. Commuters are urged to exercise patience and follow all detour signs while emergency and highway crews work to restore the roadway.
