At least two dead after 25 crashes on I-55 north and south in Manchac

Numerous accidents have occurred on both the north and southbound lanes of Interstate 55, leading to closures in both directions between Ruddock and Manchac.

This information has been confirmed by state police and St. John Sheriff Mike Tregre.

Hazardous road conditions have resulted from a combination of fog and smoke stemming from marsh fires on the South Shore, particularly affecting Monday morning (October 23).

As of now, Sheriff Tregre has reported a minimum of two fatalities and 30 injuries.

He anticipates additional casualties may be confirmed as the rescue operation continues. Sheriff Tregre has noted a total of 25 accidents in three separate locations along I-55, spanning both north and southbound lanes.

Among these incidents, three 18-wheelers were involved, with at least two of them becoming fully engulfed in flames.

More than 100 individuals found themselves stuck on the interstate, requiring deputies to navigate along the roadway to reach the crash sites. At approximately 11:40 a.m., state police partially reopened a section of I-55 to facilitate the evacuation of stranded drivers in operable vehicles.

If drivers encounter dense fog conditions, please refer to the following advice:

• Headlights on – If you can’t see 500 feet in front of you, you should have your low-beam headlights on
• · Reduce speed – Speed limits are for ideal conditions, you can be ticketed for driving too fast in heavy fog (not an ideal condition)
• · Minimize distractions and increase following distance from other cars
• Use the 511 app or visit LA511.org for additional roadway conditions.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.