New York State Police responded to a major multi-vehicle crash on I-81 southbound, just south of Exit 73 in the town of LaFayette, on Thursday afternoon.
Preliminary reports indicate the 2:20 p.m. crash involved 37 vehicles, including three tractor-trailers, along with additional smaller collisions, bringing the total number of vehicles involved to around 30. Authorities believe the crash was weather-related.
Seven people were transported to local hospitals—four to Crouse Hospital and three to Upstate Medical Center. Two patients sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Those not injured were taken from the scene to the LaFayette Fire Department on a CENTRO bus.
Southbound I-81 at Exit 73 remains closed while crews work to clear the scene, with delays expected to last about two hours. One northbound lane at Exit 67 in Tully was expected to reopen around 5 p.m.
The New York State Police’s Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit are assisting with the investigation. Authorities continue to urge drivers to seek alternate routes.
The New York State Police are on the scene of a multiple-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 southbound in the town of LaFayette.
Traffic in the area is heavily impacted as emergency crews work to assist those involved and clear the roadway. Motorists are being advised to expect delays and, if possible, to use alternate routes.
Traffic is being detoured at Exit 73, with drivers directed to follow State Route 20 to US-11. Northbound lanes of I-81 at the Tully exit are also closed to allow emergency vehicles access to the scene.
The crash remains under active investigation. Additional details will be provided as they become available.
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