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Serious Crash Closes Interstate 85 North for Hours

Traffic delays caused by a crash on Interstate 85 North

Charlotte, August 1, 2025

News Summary

A serious crash on Interstate 85 North, near mile marker 29, led to the closure of all northbound lanes for approximately three hours. The incident resulted in extensive traffic delays, with emergency responders transporting one individual to Atrium CMC with life-threatening injuries. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash and the types of vehicles involved while urging motorists to be cautious and use alternative routes during peak traffic times.

Charlotte

All lanes of Interstate 85 North were closed for about three hours due to a serious crash that occurred on Thursday afternoon. The incident took place around 12:30 p.m. at mile marker 29, which is located just west of the I-485 intersection.

Trafficking cameras showed the interstate completely empty, indicating that the crash led to extensive delays for motorists. Emergency responders transported one individual to Atrium CMC with life-threatening injuries, confirmed by MEDIC. The exact nature of the injuries sustained and the identity of the injured party have not been disclosed.

Initially, state transportation officials estimated that the northbound lanes would remain closed until approximately 3:45 p.m. However, the roadway was reopened earlier than expected, just before 3 p.m., allowing traffic to resume.

Motorists were strongly advised to avoid the area following the crash and were provided with alternative detours. Suggested routes included:

  • Exit 27 to NC 273 South/Park Street
  • Left to US 29 North/US 74 East
  • Left to Sam Wilson Road to rejoin I-85

Heavy traffic delays were reported throughout the crash area, with miles of backups noted during the closure. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation, with authorities still determining the types of vehicles involved in the collision.

Background Information

Traffic accidents on major highways like Interstate 85 can have significant impacts on daily commutes and the overall traffic flow in urban areas such as Charlotte. Previous incidents have highlighted the importance of road safety measures, timely emergency response, and the need for effective detour strategies to minimize disruptions for motorists.

Conclusion

As investigations continue, drivers are encouraged to stay informed about traffic conditions and remain vigilant while traveling through busy interstate corridors.

FAQ

What caused the crash on Interstate 85 North?

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and it is unclear what types of vehicles were involved.

How long were the northbound lanes closed?

The northbound lanes of Interstate 85 were closed for approximately three hours.

Were any injuries reported from the crash?

Yes, one person was transported to Atrium CMC with life-threatening injuries.

What detours were suggested for motorists?

Motorists were advised to take exit 27 to NC 273 South/Park Street, then turn left to US 29 North/US 74 East, and finally left to Sam Wilson Road to rejoin I-85.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Location Interstate 85 North, near Park Street and Sam Wilson Road
Time of Accident 12:30 p.m. on Thursday
Closure Duration Approximately 3 hours
Injuries One person with life-threatening injuries
Detour Routes Exit 27 to NC 273 South/Park Street, Left to US 29 North/US 74 East, Left to Sam Wilson Road
Investigation Status Ongoing, cause of the crash still being determined

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

HERE Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte

The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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