How emergency services responded to the accident on the I-459 highway that paralyzed traffic for hours

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) – We are with you as we work to resolve the serious accident that left hundreds of you stranded for hours Wednesday evening. Several people were slightly injured in the accident involving ten vehicles.

Rocky Ridge Fire District Chief Jon Michael Lord says it was a huge scene. He says they worked with seven other agencies to respond and when they arrived they realized how bad it was.

“Ten vehicles were involved in the accident, two of which were 18-wheelers on the interstate that collided almost head-on, trapping one person,” said District Captain Lord.

Hazardous material spilled during the accident. That challenge and efforts to keep everyone safe is why Lord says the highway was closed for hours.

The WBRC SkyTracker drone captured video as crews were able to reopen some of the southbound lanes.

Gentleman says it’s about prioritization and putting safety first.

“We don’t want things to get worse after we arrive. That’s why we’re going to first make sure everyone is safe and then stabilize the situation and make sure it doesn’t get any worse than it already is. Then we’ll talk about protecting your property, opening lanes and getting people home,” Lord said.

Lord says the mutual aid from other departments in this response effort was tremendous and he applauded everyone who helped on the scene Wednesday.

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