Traffic Alert: Massive Pileup Forces I-94 Closure In Jackson County

LEONI TWP. (WWJ) - A section of I-94 in Jackson County has reopened following a massive pileup that likely grew so large due to snowy weather.

A series of accidents happened around 10 a.m. Friday along westbound I-94 at Race Road, along the border of Leoni and Grass Lake townships just outside of Jackson. Michigan State Police say roughly 50 to 60 vehicles are involved in the backup.

"It appears at this point that we have about 35 to 45 vehicles that are actually involved in some type of crash situation, and numerous vehicles are caught between these crashes that didn't have any damage," said Jackson County Undersheriff Christopher Kuhl.

Three people were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries. Several others were evaluated and treated at the scene.

Kuhl said the incident was set off by a driver who was trying to pass another vehicle and lost control, causing a collision. This caused a series of chain reaction crashes, making the roadway impassable.

"We did have a number of semis involved. Some jack-knifed across the highway, causing multiple backup crashes behind them as drivers came upon them," he said.

A sudden snow squall may have also been a contributing factor.

"There was an isolated storm system that came through and visibility was greatly reduced and the roadway became very icy," said Kuhl.

Traffic on the eastbound side of the freeway was completely stopped for about an hour before drivers started moving again. The westbound lanes of the freeway were closed until around 1 p.m.

The incident remains under investigation.

Know before you go: Keep it tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for the latest forecast during traffic and weather, every 10 minutes on the 8s. See live, local radar at this link; and check for accidents on local freeways here.