UPDATE: I-10 Reopened After Major Accident Involving School Buses and Band Trailer

A major accident has closed I-10 westbound near the I-10/I-49 interchange, creating significant delays for motorists. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) and local law enforcement confirmed that the crash occurred at the Moss Street overpass. The crash is resulting in a substantial traffic buildup, with backups stretching over three miles and continuing to grow.

UPDATE:

According to Lafayette Police, I-10 Westbound is reopened for travel.

UPDATE:

The Lafayette Police Department has confirmed new details regarding the major accident that has closed I-10 westbound near Mile Marker 103B. Around 12:47 p.m., police responded to a collision involving five school buses and a truck hauling a band trailer from St. Bernard Parish.

Initial reports indicate that one bus rear-ended another, triggering a chain reaction that affected the remaining buses in the convoy. Six students were transported to a local hospital with injuries ranging from minor to moderate, according to authorities.

ORIGINAL STORY:

Lafayette Police are describing the incident as a “major accident” and caution that the area may remain closed for the next one to two hours as they work to clear the wreckage and investigate. Currently, vehicles are seen on traffic cameras attempting to bypass the scene by using the interstate shoulder, creating further congestion and delays for those navigating the area.

Eyewitnesses at the scene describe the accident as “horrible,” with some suggesting that buses might be involved. Despite the unconfirmed reports, officials have not yet released specific details about the vehicles involved or the number of injuries, if any.

DOTD is urging drivers to seek alternate routes if possible and to expect significant delays if traveling in the area. Those planning to use I-10 westbound near the I-49 interchange should monitor local traffic updates closely, as additional information becomes available from police and emergency responders on-site.

This is a developing story...