I-65 Accident Today News: Three Injured After Bridge Collapse Shuts Down Interstate in Alabama

SHELBY COUNTY, ALABAMA — A major I-65 accident today has caused significant disruption in Shelby County after construction equipment struck an overpass above the interstate, sending concrete and other debris onto the roadway and forcing the closure of southbound lanes.

The incident occurred Tuesday, August 25, 2026, near Exit 234 at County Road 87, close to the Shelby County Airport and between the Alabaster and Calera areas.

Authorities reported that a large piece of construction equipment being transported on the interstate struck the underside of the County Road 87 bridge. The impact caused substantial damage to the overpass and resulted in a partial collapse.

Three Injured in I-65 Crash

At least three people were injured in the incident, with one reported to be in critical condition.

Several vehicles were damaged after portions of the bridge fell onto the southbound lanes.

Emergency crews responded to the scene as authorities worked to secure the interstate and assess the condition of the damaged bridge.

The severity of the incident prompted an immediate shutdown of the affected section of I-65 while transportation officials examined the structure and cleared debris from the highway.

I-65 South Closed in Shelby County

Southbound Interstate 65 remains closed near the Shelby County Airport as crews investigate the damage and work to make the roadway safe.

Traffic is being diverted away from the affected area, with motorists directed toward Exit 238 in Alabaster.

Drivers traveling through Shelby County are being urged to avoid the area whenever possible and use alternate routes.

The closure has resulted in significant traffic backups along I-65, with motorists facing delays as emergency crews, law enforcement officers and transportation personnel work at the scene.

Bridge Damage Being Evaluated

The Alabama Department of Transportation is assessing the structural integrity of the County Road 87 bridge.

Crews are expected to remove damaged concrete and other debris before bridge inspectors can fully evaluate the structure.

The bridge itself has also been closed while officials determine whether it can safely support traffic.

The damage means the incident is affecting both the interstate and the road carried by the overpass.

What Caused the I-65 Accident?

Preliminary information indicates that the crash occurred when construction equipment struck the underside of the bridge.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, including how the equipment came into contact with the overpass.

The incident occurred near an area where road construction and widening work has been taking place, although officials have not indicated that the ongoing project itself caused the accident.

Investigators and transportation officials will determine the precise circumstances as the response continues.

Traffic Delays Expected

The I-65 closure is expected to have a significant impact on traffic through the Shelby County corridor.

Motorists traveling south toward Montgomery and other destinations are being advised to allow additional travel time or find an alternate route.

The closure is particularly significant because I-65 is one of Alabama’s principal north-south transportation routes, carrying heavy commuter, commercial and passenger traffic through the Birmingham metropolitan area and beyond.

Drivers should avoid approaching the closure simply to determine whether the roadway has reopened, as emergency and transportation crews need room to work safely.

Emergency Crews Remain at the Scene

Law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel and transportation crews responded following the bridge strike.

The injured were taken for medical treatment, while authorities continued working to protect motorists from additional falling debris and other hazards.

Bridge inspectors will play an important role in determining when the structure and interstate can safely reopen.

Officials have not provided a final timetable for reopening the affected section.

Investigation Continues

The I-65 accident remains under investigation.

Authorities are expected to provide additional information as the response develops, including further details concerning the injured motorists, the extent of the bridge damage and the expected duration of the closure.

For motorists in Shelby County, the immediate priority remains avoiding the affected section of I-65 and following directions from law enforcement and transportation officials.

The incident is another reminder of the risks associated with heavy construction activity around major highways, particularly when oversized equipment is being transported near bridges and overpasses.

As crews continue clearing the roadway and evaluating the damaged structure, drivers should expect delays around the I-65 corridor in the Alabaster and Calera areas.

Disclaimer

This article is based on information available during the developing response to the August 25, 2026, I-65 incident in Shelby County, Alabama. Details concerning injuries, the cause of the crash, bridge damage, traffic restrictions and roadway reopening may change as authorities continue their investigation. This report is intended for general informational purposes and should not be considered an official emergenc