Monroe County, Arkansas – A crash involving hazardous materials shut down both directions of Interstate 40 in Monroe County on Thursday afternoon, triggering major traffic delays and a multi-agency response.
According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), the first incident occurred at approximately 2:27 p.m. near Mile Marker 207.4, about 6.6 miles southwest of Brinkley. The crash, located on the eastbound side of the highway, did not involve any reported injuries, but officials confirmed that fuel was spilled, creating a hazardous materials situation.
An ARDOT spokesperson noted, “Fuel is involved in the incident and hazmat conditions are present.” Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, working to contain the spill and assess any environmental risks. While details about the type of vehicle or exact contents of the spill remain limited, authorities have confirmed that cleanup efforts are underway and may continue into the evening.
Just minutes after the initial crash, a second incident was reported in the westbound lanes at the same location. That crash, recorded by ARDOT at 2:32 p.m., did involve injuries, although the number of vehicles and the severity of injuries have not yet been disclosed.
As a result of both incidents, I-40 experienced a complete eastbound shutdown at the crash site, with traffic being diverted at Mile Marker 216. Westbound traffic was also significantly slowed, and emergency vehicles were seen moving between the divided sections of the highway.
Drivers were urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. Digital message boards, highway advisories, and ARDOT’s IDriveArkansas.com map were updated in real-time to keep motorists informed.
Officials have not provided an estimated time for when the highway will fully reopen, as hazmat teams continue to assess and clean up the scene. The Arkansas State Police and local first responders remained on site late into the afternoon to manage the situation and ensure public safety.
Motorists planning to travel through Monroe County on I-40 are advised to check traffic updates frequently and expect delays until further notice.
