I-79 Car Accident Today, Lancaster Township, Car “split in half” 3 reportedly injured

Authorities responded Thursday afternoon to a serious multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 79 in Lancaster Township, Pennsylvania, that left at least three people injured and caused major traffic disruptions throughout the region.

The incident occurred in the northbound lanes near the 91.8 mile marker, prompting an immediate emergency response after reports came in shortly after 3:30 p.m., according to Butler County Emergency Services. Officials confirmed that the crash led to the closure of northbound lanes near Little Creek Road as first responders arrived on scene to assess injuries and manage traffic control.

Dispatch communications from Butler County Emergency Services indicated that the crash involved at least one vehicle that had been “split in half,” underscoring the severity of the impact. Emergency personnel worked quickly to provide medical assistance to those involved while securing the area for transport and cleanup operations.

By shortly after 4:00 p.m., reports confirmed that two of the injured individuals had been transported to hospitals in the Pittsburgh area. One patient was taken to Allegheny General Hospital, while another was transported to UPMC Mercy for further treatment. A third injured individual was also reported, though details regarding their condition and transport were not immediately available.

As emergency crews continued their response, traffic in the area began to build significantly. By approximately 4:22 p.m., vehicles were backed up for several miles along Interstate 79 due to the closure. An exit near the crash site was also shut down to prevent further congestion and to allow emergency personnel safe access to the scene.

In addition to the interstate closure, Route 19 was also temporarily shut down near the crash location, further impacting local traffic flow and forcing drivers to seek alternate routes. Motorists in the area were advised to expect delays and exercise caution while traveling near the affected corridors.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and emergency services coordinated efforts to manage the aftermath of the crash, including clearing debris and investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Despite the severity of the incident and initial road closures, officials reported that Interstate 79 was reopened to traffic at approximately 5:30 p.m. following cleanup and clearance of the scene.

Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the cause of the crash or the identities of those involved. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine what led to the collision and the extent of the injuries sustained.

Drivers in the region are reminded to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic safety guidelines, particularly in high-speed corridors where serious accidents can occur unexpectedly.