Tractor-Trailer Crash and Fire Shuts Down I‑95 Northbound in East Lyme, Connecticut
East Lyme, CT – A fiery crash early Saturday morning led to the full shutdown of Interstate 95 Northbound in East Lyme after a tractor-trailer collided with another vehicle and caught fire. According to Connecticut State Police, the accident occurred at approximately 6:49 a.m. near Exit 72, prompting an immediate emergency response and extensive traffic disruptions.
The collision involved a tractor-trailer and a passenger vehicle, and the force of the impact caused the large commercial truck to ignite in flames. Firefighters from the East Lyme Fire Department responded quickly to contain and extinguish the blaze. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported at the scene, though the incident could have been far more severe given the size of the vehicles involved and the potential danger of the fire.
State police, local fire crews, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), and the Department of Transportation (DOT) were all on scene shortly after the crash. These agencies worked together to manage traffic, address hazardous materials, and begin cleanup efforts. The fire damaged the roadway and required the removal of debris, leading to an extended closure.
As of Saturday afternoon, Interstate 95 Northbound remains fully closed at Exit 72. Officials are urging drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Heavy traffic is expected on local detour roads, and travelers are advised to allow for extra time when driving through the region.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and there has been no word yet on whether any citations or charges will be filed. Authorities are expected to release further updates as more information becomes available.
This incident highlights the ongoing risks and disruptions caused by tractor-trailer crashes on major highways like I‑95. Similar incidents in recent years, including a gasoline tanker fire in Norwalk in 2024 and a major crash in Stonington, have shown just how dangerous and impactful these types of accidents can be for both travelers and emergency responders.
Motorists planning to travel through East Lyme should stay updated through local traffic alerts, WFSB Eyewitness News, and navigation apps. It’s vital to follow official detour signs and drive cautiously near active emergency scenes. The roadway will remain closed until crews deem the area safe and clear for travel.