On May 2, 2024, a significant incident occurred on Interstate 95 in Norwalk, Connecticut. A tractor-trailer carrying gasoline was involved in a collision with one or more vehicles, resulting in a fire that shut down both sides of the interstate for several days due to damage to utilities and the bridge.
According to reports from various sources, including Connecticut State Police and local news outlets, the crash happened around 5:30 a.m. near Exit 15 at the Fairfield Avenue overpass. The tractor-trailer was carrying approximately 8,500 gallons of fuel.
No serious injuries were reported from the incident, but one firefighter sustained a leg injury while battling the blaze. The flames also caused extensive damage to the bridge and utilities in the area.
The closure is expected to last for several days as crews assess and repair the damage. Officials urged patience and recommended that anyone who can work from home should do so, while locals were advised to avoid non-essential travel in the Norwalk area.
Some of the gasoline spilled into a catch basin that runs along I-95, which drains into the Norwalk Harbor. Marine units, including DEEP and a local hazmat team, were on scene to contain and clean up that material to prevent it from entering the Norwalk River.
The incident caused significant traffic jams in the area as both sides of I-95 were shut down. Traffic was detoured off of I-95 and onto Connecticut Avenue. A hazardous materials investigation is underway.
Governor Ned Lamont provided updates on the situation throughout the day, urging residents to stay away from the area due to traffic jams and potential hazards.
The following roads were closed as a result of the incident:
- Fairfield Avenue from Cedar Street to Connecticut Avenue
- Cedar Street eastbound from Fairfield Avenue to Reed Street
- Stuart Avenue southbound from Connecticut Avenue to Reed Street
