Gastonia, North Carolina, August 1, 2025
News Summary
All lanes of I-85 North have reopened following a significant crash near the Mecklenburg-Gaston County line. The incident, which resulted in life-threatening injuries for one individual, caused major traffic delays. Although initially expected to remain closed until late afternoon, the northbound lanes reopened shortly before 3 p.m. Motorists were redirected to a detour route during the closure as local authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident.
Gastonia, North Carolina – All lanes of I-85 North have reopened following a major crash near the Mecklenburg-Gaston County line on Thursday. The accident occurred around 12:30 p.m., just prior to Exit 29 leading to Sam Wilson Road. This closure caused significant traffic delays, with maps indicating backups stretching for miles in the area.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation initially estimated an extended closure, predicting that the northbound lanes would remain blocked until approximately 3:45 p.m.. However, the roadway was successfully reopened shortly before 3 p.m., allowing traffic to resume its normal flow.
One person was reported to have sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to Atrium CMC for treatment, according to MEDIC. Details on the specific types of vehicles involved in the crash remain currently unavailable. During the closure, traffic cameras showed no vehicles on I-85, indicating a substantial impact on traffic flow in the region.
Motorists were redirected to use exit 27 as a detour during the closure. The recommended detour route instructed drivers to turn right onto NC-273 South/Park Street, then left onto US-29 North/US-74 East, and finally another left onto Sam Wilson Road to re-enter I-85.
The cause of the accident is presently under investigation, with local authorities working to gather more information concerning the factors that led to this severe incident and the circumstances surrounding the injuries sustained.
This accident comes at a time when traffic safety has become a growing concern in North Carolina, with officials urging drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to speed limits to prevent further incidents on busy highways.
Summary of Incident
Date: Thursday
Time of Accident: 12:30 p.m.
Location: I-85 North, near Mecklenburg-Gaston County line, just prior to Exit 29
Injuries: One person hospitalized with life-threatening injuries
Detour Instructions: Exit 27, right onto NC-273 South/Park Street, left onto US-29 North/US-74 East, and left onto Sam Wilson Road to re-enter I-85
Road Reopening: Shortly before 3 p.m.
Investigation: Ongoing regarding the cause of the accident
FAQ
What happened on I-85 North?
A major crash occurred near the Mecklenburg-Gaston County line, leading to the closure of all northbound lanes.
What time did the accident occur?
The crash was reported around 12:30 p.m. on Thursday.
Were there any injuries reported?
Yes, one person was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries following the crash.
How long was I-85 North closed?
The northbound lanes were closed from roughly 12:30 p.m. until shortly before 3 p.m.
What detours were provided during the closure?
Motorists were advised to use Exit 27, then follow a route including NC-273 South and US-29 North.
Is the cause of the accident known?
The cause of the crash is still under investigation by local authorities.
Key Features of the Accident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday |
| Time of Incident | 12:30 p.m. |
| Location | I-85 North, near Mecklenburg-Gaston County line |
| Injuries | One person with life-threatening injuries |
| Detour Route | Exit 27 to NC-273 South, then US-29 North |
| Reopening Time | Shortly before 3 p.m. |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: I-85 Closed Charlotte Crash
- Wikipedia: Interstate 85
- WSOC TV: Traffic Backed Up Miles After Crash
- Google Search: I-85 Traffic Accident Charlotte
- WBTV: I-85 Crash Near Mecklenburg-Gaston County Line
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- QC News: Crash Closes I-85 North Near Sam Wilson Road
- Google News: Traffic Safety North Carolina
Author: HERE Charlotte
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