Diesel Spill from Crash Shuts Down Major Lafayette Roadway

LAFAYETTE, LA – A major traffic accident involving a semi-truck and two other vehicles brought traffic to a standstill Thursday evening after a significant diesel fuel spill forced the closure of a heavily traveled Lafayette roadway.

According to Sgt. Ashley Wood, Lafayette Police responded to the crash around 7:54 PM in the 2000 block of W. University Avenue. Authorities say the collision involved an 18-wheeler with a box trailer and two passenger vehicles. The impact led to a "substantial diesel spill" that has prompted an emergency response and full closure of W. University Avenue between W. Simcoe Street and Cameron Street.

As of Thursday night, all lanes in that stretch remain shut down as cleanup crews work to contain and remove the hazardous material. Officials have not yet provided a timeline for when the roadway will reopen.

Drivers are urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes as the cleanup and investigation continue. Traffic congestion is expected around the closure points as well as the crash site itself.

No injuries have been reported at this time, but the Lafayette Police Department is still investigating the exact cause of the crash.

Motorists traveling in the area should expect possible delays and stay tuned for updates on roadway access near the crash site.