St. Louis, MO — A deadly multivehicle crash shut down all westbound lanes of Interstate 44 at Arsenal Street Thursday morning, causing major traffic disruptions and prompting a full accident investigation by local authorities.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the crash occurred around 10:40 a.m., resulting in at least one fatality. Emergency crews, including Accident Reconstruction investigators, were dispatched to the scene shortly after the incident was reported.
All westbound lanes and both shoulders of I-44 near Arsenal were closed as a result of the crash, with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) estimating the closure would remain in place until approximately 12:40 p.m. Drivers were urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes as traffic congestion quickly built up around the scene.
Details about the number of vehicles involved and the circumstances leading up to the collision have not yet been released. Police have not disclosed the identity of the deceased pending notification of next of kin.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. More information is expected to be released as authorities continue to process the scene and gather witness statements.