BALTIMORE, MD—A massive multi-vehicle accident occurred along the icy South Baltimore roads of Interstate 95. The crash happened near the Washington Boulevard exit around 5 a.m. on Saturday, December 17. The Maryland Department of Transportation indicated that over 67 vehicles and one tractor trailer were involved in the pile-up.
Authorities say the tanker went off the bridge, falling down to the street below. Emergency Management has called the collision the worst accident in the recent history of Baltimore. At least two people were killed, including the driver of the tractor trailer, and dozens were injured, at least seven of those injuries were listed as being critical.
“It’s a miracle more people weren’t hurt or killed,” said Baltimore City Office of Emergency Management Director, Bob Maloney.
Traffic on I-95 north came to a complete stop for the hours following the crash. Assessment crews and other authorities from both Howard County and Baltimore County were called to the scene to investigate.
“People were helping people out of cars, who weren’t involved in the accident. There was one gentleman who I saw earlier who had his hands cut, bandaged, he was in the wreckage pulling people out,” said Maloney. “The coordination between the first responders and the civilians on the scene was nothing short of remarkable.”
It has been reported by University of Maryland Medical Center that they are currently caring for 23 patients who suffered injuries from the crash. UMMC’s Media Relations Director, Michael Schwartzberg said 16 people are being treated for a range of injuries that include cuts and bruises, broken bones, and lacerations in the Emergency Department at UMMC. Schwartzberg reported seven patients being treated for Shock Trauma. Four of the patients are listed in critical condition, two are listed in serious condition and one patient is listed in fair condition. The patients are being treated for injuries including head trauma and broken bones.
Close to a dozen tow trucks lined up along the exit ramp for hours to help clean up the cars involved. Forklifts were brought in to move more of the mangled cars along the highway’s shoulder.
Although I-95 has reopened, Lt. Kevin Ayd of Maryland Transportation Authority says it could take possibly weeks or months to determine the cause of the crash.
Both Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh made statements about the crash.
“I want to share my deepest condolences to those affected by this morning’s multi-vehicle crash. Today’s icy road conditions remind us all that it is imperative to exercise extreme caution due to severe weather. I want to thank the emergency crews for their expedient response. They continue to work closely with City agencies to render aid and coordinate efforts to stabilize road conditions for motorists. For the latest updates and information, please follow the Baltimore City Department of Transportation. We ask that residents delay travel if possible,” said Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh.
“The First Lady and I send our deepest condolences and prayers to the families and loved ones of the individuals who lost their lives early this morning as a result of fatal accidents. Our state’s entire emergency management, transportation, and law enforcement resources are fully engaged in managing this situation and are working closely with local jurisdictions to provide needed support. I offer my sincerest gratitude to the state and local first responders who are working diligently at the scene of these incidents and who will continue to do so until the roadways are clear,” said Maryland Governor Larry Hogan in a statement.
I-95’s cleanup is still underway. Baltimore has set up a hotline for those inquiring regarding the status of family and friends that may have been involved in the accident who can call 1-888-756-7836.
