Crash between Janseville, Beloit; pileup involves 85 vehicles
JANESVILLE, Wis. - A multi-vehicle crash shut down Interstate 39/90 in Rock County Friday afternoon, Jan. 27 between Beloit and Janesville.
According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, the severe winter weather – snow, ice and whiteout conditions – are believed to be what caused the initial crash.
Officials said the initial investigation indicates 85 vehicles were involved. Twenty-one people were injured and one death was reported in an unrelated crash.
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It happened around 12:30 p.m. near mile marker 181, blocking traffic in both directions. Southbound traffic was diverted at Avalon Road, and northbound traffic was diverted at Shopiere Road.
Southbound traffic reopened around 8:10 p.m. while northbound reopened around 9:10 p.m.
A nearby WisDOT traffic camera showed a long line of vehicles stuck in traffic near the scene.
Most of southern Wisconsin remained under a winter weather advisory Friday afternoon with more snow expected on Saturday.
Associated Press contributed to this report.