Jacksonville, FL — A Southside crash that tied up traffic for hours, has left a motorcyclist dead.
The crash was on I-295 northbound before Baymeadows. For a period of time, all lanes of the highway both northbound and southbound were shut down, then, only northbound lanes were closed for several hours, while JSO redirected traffic on to Philips Hwy. Just before 4:30PM, all lanes re-opened.
TRAFFIC ALERT: Crash blocking ALL NB and SB lanes on I-295 E Beltway around Baymeadows. JSO on scene. Use Southside Blvd! #WOKVtraffic pic.twitter.com/VR4PD5ZUNT
— Arielle Wysocki (@ArielleWysocki) May 9, 2018
UPDATE: SB lanes have reopened. JSO now blocking ALL NB lanes on I-295 E Beltway at Philips to redirect traffic. Use Southside or I-95 NB! https://t.co/zUYDjZBYpq
— WOKV News (@WOKVNews) May 9, 2018
The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department says the motorcycle was on fire when crews arrived on scene.
The Florida Highway Patrol now confirmed to WOKV that this all started when the motorcyclist hit the back of a pickup truck, although the reason for that is not yet known. The motorcyclist was ejected, and FHP says he was then run over by a semi truck. The motorcyclist was taken to the hospital, but has since died as a result of his injuries.
FHP says both drivers stayed on scene and are cooperating as the investigation continues. Any additional charges stemming from the initial collision are pending further investigation. The identity of the motorcyclist has not yet been released.
FHP says they’re working as quickly as they can to clear the travel lanes, and hope to have that done before rush hour. The WOKV Traffic Team is frequently updating the drive in that area. Tune in to 104.5 FM/AM 690 for the latest information on delays and detours.
— MyJFRD (@JFRDJAX) May 9, 2018
TRAVEL ADVISORY: Northbound I-295 between State Road 9B and Baymeadows Road is closed due to a crash. Drivers are encouraged to seek an alternate route. It is unknown at this time how long the road will be closed.
— FDOT District 2 (@MyFDOT_NEFL) May 9, 2018