New York State Police are investigating a large multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 in Jefferson County that disrupted traffic in both directions Tuesday morning.
The crash happened around 8:58 a.m. between Exit 44 and Exit 45 in the City of Watertown and involved a mix of commercial and passenger vehicles.
According to a preliminary investigation, seven tractor-trailers and nine passenger vehicles were involved in the southbound lanes. In the northbound lanes, troopers say two tractor-trailers, three passenger vehicles, and one work van were involved.
Officials say the crash included at least one jackknifed tractor-trailer and resulted in four reported minor injuries.
Investigators believe whiteout conditions played a role in the crash.
As a result, southbound traffic has been detoured at Exit 44 onto Arsenal Street. While northbound lanes were temporarily closed, they have since reopened. Southbound lanes remain shut down as crews work to remove vehicles in hazardous weather conditions.
The investigation remains active. Motorists are urged to use caution and be prepared for rapidly changing weather in the area.
