Connecticut Crash Closes Portion of I-95 for Days, Sparking Concerns After Second Major Incident

A fiery inferno erupted on Interstate 95 in Norwalk, Connecticut, forcing the closure of a substantial stretch of the highway for an extended period. State officials anticipate the road to remain closed for several days as crews work to clean up the aftermath of the tanker truck explosion.

**Norwalk, Connecticut** - Interstate 95 in Norwalk, Connecticut, was shut down on Thursday following a massive fire involving a tractor-trailer carrying thousands of gallons of gasoline. The inferno, which occurred under an overpass near exits 15 and 16, sparked concerns as it marked the second major crash on the same highway in just over a year.

State police responded to the crash report around 5:30 a.m., involving the tanker truck and several other vehicles. The impact ignited a significant fire that engulfed the tanker, leading to its explosion.

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, during a press conference, expressed gratitude that no severe injuries had been reported. However, additional crashes occurred following the initial incident, highlighting the severity of the situation.

"Traffic is a nightmare down there," said Paul Rizzo, bureau chief of the state's Department of Transportation.

Lamont announced the closure of both directions of Interstate 95, a vital southwestern Connecticut highway situated merely 20 miles from the New York border. The closure will remain in effect until police investigations and structural evaluations are completed.

"I know what an incredible inconvenience this is for people," Lamont said. "All I can ask you to do is stay away from that area the best you can. The traffic jams are horrendous."

The closure disrupts traffic flow, causing significant delays for commuters and travelers alike. The state is urging motorists to seek alternate routes and allot additional travel time.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg acknowledged the crash and extended support. "Our highways team is working closely with Connecticut's DOT on the tanker fire that has closed I-95 in Norwalk," Buttigieg tweeted. "Thank you to the first responders who are dealing with the fire and keeping other drivers safe."

The cleanup efforts are expected to take several days, and the state is working to determine a safe time for reopening the road. In the meantime, authorities recommend using alternate routes and avoiding the affected area.

In April 2023, a similar incident took place on I-95 in Groton, Connecticut, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. A truck carrying thousands of gallons of fuel overturned, spilling roughly 2,200 gallons onto the roadway and igniting a fire.

The recent crash highlights the growing concern over the safety of major highways. Authorities are working to assess the damage and determine the cause of the incident. The prolonged closure of I-95 serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with transporting hazardous materials and the importance of ensuring the safety of our transportation infrastructure.