LAKE CHARLES, La. — A fiery Wednesday night wreck and a pending inspection on the Interstate 10 bridge over the Calcasieu River in Lake Charles has traffic backed up more than 12 hours later.
The interstate was shut down in both directions following a wreck involving an 18-wheeler that burned on the bridge, NBC affiliate KPLC reported.
Traffic is being diverted to Interstate 210 according to the Louisiana Department of Transportation.
The bridge will remain closed until a "thorough and detailed inspection" of it can be made in the daylight according to a Wednesday night news release from LaDOT.
Google traffic maps still showed the interstate was shutdown and heavy traffic along Interstate 210 as of 9 a.m. Thursday morning.
The big rig, which was carrying building materials, was struck by another vehicle Westlake Police Chief Chris Wilrye told KPLC.
Only minor injuries were reported.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
From a Louisiana Department of Transportation news release...
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces that the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge will remain closed after a vehicle fire that occurred during the evening on Wednesday, September 22.
DOTD inspectors are investigating to determine if damage has occurred. Crews are on site beginning preliminary inspections. A full inspection will be completed during daylight.
The bridge will remain closed until a thorough and detailed inspection is complete.
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at www.511la.org.
