At Least 1 Fatality Confirmed After Tractor Trailer Crosses Median Striking Cars
BENSON – Southbound lanes of Interstate 95 in southern Johnston County have been shutdown following a crash involving a tractor trailer and approximately 7 other vehicles.
Initial reports indicate a tractor trailer was traveling northbound on I-95 at 3:29pm this afternoon (Saturday) near Benson when the truck veered into the median and through the guardrail. The truck collided with several southbound vehicles causing a chain reaction crash. The crash happened near the 78 mile marker, between Highway 50 and the Harnett County line.
One fatality has been confirmed at the scene. Seven people have been transported to area hospitals with three of the victims listed in critical condition. Approximately 13 Johnston County EMS ambulances responded to the accident. As of 5:00pm, five ambulances were still on the scene. It is unknown if there are additional injuries or patients to be transported to the hospital.
Numerous agencies have responded to the crash. In addition to Johnston County EMS, the Benson Fire Department, Dunn Fire Department, NC Highway Patrol, Benson Police Department, Johnston County Sheriff’s Office and Harnett County Sheriff’s Office have responded.
The NC Highway Patrol hopes to have southbound lanes of I-95 reopened by 8:00pm. One northbound lane was closed after the crash. The northbound lane is expected to be reopened by 6:00pm.
Photo courtesy Eastern Fire Photography
