SOUTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA — Interstate 81 northbound has reopened after a three-tractor-trailer crash in Cumberland County scattered debris across the roadway, spilled raw chicken, sent one person to the hospital, and shut down the highway for hours.
The crash happened around 3:25 to 3:30 a.m. Wednesday near mile marker 28 in Southampton Township, close to Exit 29 at King Street/Route 174, according to PennDOT and dispatch reports.
Three Tractor-Trailers Involved in Early Morning Wreck
Officials said three tractor-trailers collided in the northbound lanes of I-81. One truck was hauling raw chicken, another was carrying mail, and the cargo in the third truck was not immediately identified.
PennDOT said the collision created a large debris field across the interstate. Reports from the scene said debris and other substances were spread across the highway, with raw chicken spilled throughout the crash area.
The chicken cleaned up from the roadway is believed to have been taken to a landfill.
One Person Hospitalized, Highway Closed for Hours
One person was transported to a local hospital, according to officials. The extent of that person’s injuries has not been released.
Following the crash, all northbound lanes of I-81 were closed between Exit 24 at Fayette Street/Route 696 and Exit 29 at King Street/Route 174. PennDOT said the closure lasted more than six hours, and traffic backed up heavily in the area.
Franklin County crews were also called in to assist with closing the interstate.
At one point, a lane restriction was in place between mile marker 24 and mile marker 29 as crews worked the scene and cleaned up the spill.
Roadway Reopened After Cleanup
PennDOT initially warned that I-81 northbound would remain closed for several hours. By 9:30 a.m., officials confirmed the roadway had reopened.
Crews continued clearing the debris field and crash scene before traffic flow was restored.
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