NBC News reported seven people were killed, and more than two dozen others were injured and sought treatment at hospitals in crashes involving at least 158 vehicles on a Louisiana interstate Monday, October 23, 2023, state police said.
Several “multiple-vehicle” crashes in the northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 55 began at mile marker 22, and a stretch of the crash scene caught fire.
More than 25 people were taken to hospitals with varying injuries; others sought medical attention independently.
At a news conference Monday, State Police Sgt. Kate Stegall said the crashes began shortly before 9 a.m. and stretched across a mile.
While the investigation into the massive crash remains fluid, the state police cautioned drivers about fog in a Facebook post Monday morning.
“There is heavy fog in the area, and drivers should avoid the area if possible and use alternate routes,” the post said. Video of the aftermath of the pileup shows foggy conditions and at least one instance of a pickup on top of another vehicle. There were also multiple fires, including marsh fires, in the area, the National Weather Service in New Orleans said Monday on X.
The weather service said dense fog and smoke combined to form “Superfog,” which “heavily impacted” parts of the interstate.
In addition, a tanker truck carrying hazardous liquid was involved in the collision.
In a statement on X, Gov. John Bel Edwards asked for prayers for those killed and injured, saying, “The combination of wildfire smoke and dense fog is dangerous, and I want to encourage all Louisianans in affected areas to take extreme caution when traveling.” He continued, “I also want to thank first responders and medical personnel who have worked diligently to save lives and render aid.”
At Simien & Simien, LLC, our Louisiana auto accident attorneys share the governor’s sentiments and send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and families of those lost in this horrendous crash, and wish those who were injured a speedy recovery so they can regain control of their lives after such a traumatic incident.
We are dedicated to providing emotional support, compassionate care, and legal resources to all impacted by this massive crash or other crashes, including injury victims and those who lost their loved ones, helping them to understand their legal rights and options. Contact us today for help.
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