A portion of Interstate 26 westbound in Charleston, South Carolina was closed overnight after a police cruiser was struck by another vehicle on Tuesday night. The closure, which affected traffic between the Septima P. Clark Parkway and the Mount Pleasant Street exit, caused significant disruptions. Fortunately, the two officers involved in the crash sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to the hospital.
The Incident and Road Closure
The crash occurred when a Charleston Police cruiser was blocking traffic to assist a disabled vehicle. According to police reports, another car collided with the cruiser while it was positioned on the roadway. The impact of the crash caused authorities to close the westbound lanes of I-26 between the Septima P. Clark Parkway and Mount Pleasant Street exit for several hours.
Charleston Police posted on X (formerly Twitter) to inform the public of the closure, alerting drivers to the hazardous conditions and encouraging them to seek alternative routes.
Injuries and Medical Response
Both officers in the police cruiser were taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Their quick transport to a medical facility ensured they received the necessary care, and thankfully, their injuries are not expected to result in long-term health complications.
Roadway Reopening
After several hours of investigation and cleanup, the westbound lanes of I-26 were reopened around 12:15 a.m. on Wednesday, allowing traffic to resume. Despite the crash, authorities were able to clear the scene efficiently and minimize the disruption to commuters.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers police officers face while assisting on the roads. Although both officers sustained injuries, the quick response from emergency services and the reopening of the road helped restore normal traffic flow. Authorities continue to investigate the crash, but it appears that no lives were lost, and the officers are expected to recover from their injuries.
