On Thursday, Jan. 15, at 2:20 p.m., state police responded to a report of a multi-vehicle crash on I-81 southbound, south of Exit 73 in the town of LaFayette.
The preliminary investigation has determined that the primary crash involved approximately 18 vehicles, including three tractor-trailers. There were also a number of smaller crashes. A total of 37 vehicles were involved in the crash, which authorities believe to be weather-related. Interstate 81 has reopened in both northbound and southbound directions.
Rescue personnel have transported four patients to Upstate Medical Hospital, three to Crouse Hospital, and one to Upstate Community Hospital. Of these patients two patients have serious, but not life-threatening, injuries.
Those individuals who were not injured in the crash were transported from the scene to the LaFayette Fire Department by a CENTRO bus.
The NYSP Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit, Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit are on scene assisting with the investigation.
This is an active investigation, and additional information will be released as soon as it becomes available.
