Local
Eight Injured as Turnpike Crash Near Tamiami Trail Closes Northbound Lanes
A two-vehicle collision on Florida's Turnpike at Tamiami Trail sent eight people to hospitals and shut down all northbound lanes during the Wednesday midday rush. Seven of the injured were transported by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, while authorities continue to investigate the cause.
Eight people were injured Wednesday when a black SUV and a white work van collided on Florida's Turnpike near the Tamiami Trail interchange, forcing authorities to close all northbound lanes at mile marker 25, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred around 11:20 a.m. at the exit for Tamiami Trail, also known as Southwest 8th Street and U.S. 41 â a heavily traveled corridor that links suburban Miami-Dade County with the Everglades and the state's western communities.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said seven of the eight people hurt were taken to a hospital. The condition of the injured was not immediately released, and it was not clear whether the eighth person declined transport or was treated at the scene.
The closure of the northbound side of the turnpike during the midday hours threatened to snarl traffic across a broad stretch of western Miami-Dade, where the highway serves as a primary commuter route for residents of Homestead, Kendall and communities farther south. Drivers were urged to seek alternate routes while troopers worked the scene.
The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the collision. No further details about the circumstances of the crash, including whether speed, weather or road conditions played a role, were immediately available.
Major crashes on the turnpike's southern stretches have long been a concern for local officials and safety advocates, who point to high speeds, heavy truck traffic and limited evacuation routes as compounding risks for daily commuters and emergency responders alike.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.