On Sunday afternoon, just before 4 p.m., a camper overturned on the westbound lanes of Interstate 64 near mile marker 46 in Nitro, West Virginia. The accident completely blocked traffic, prompting immediate action from local first‑responders.
Response from Nitro Police and Emergency Services
The Nitro Police Department confirmed that the overturned vehicle was a recreational camper and that it was obstructing every lane of the westbound carriageway. Dispatchers instructed drivers to exit the highway at the Institute exit and follow detour signs onto Route 25 until the scene could be cleared.
Fire crews from both Nitro and nearby Tyler Mountain responded, along with Putnam County Emergency Medical Services. Kanawha County dispatch coordinated the multi‑agency effort, ensuring that the incident was managed safely and efficiently.
Impact on Commuters and Detour Details
Motorists traveling west on I‑64 were forced to seek alternate routes. The Institute exit, located just east of the crash site, provides a direct connection to Route 25, which runs parallel to the interstate and serves as the primary detour corridor. Drivers were advised to remain patient, follow posted signage, and expect possible delays on Route 25 as traffic volume increased.
Local officials emphasized that the safety of motorists and first‑responders remains the top priority. “Our teams are working diligently to clear the camper and restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible,” said a spokesperson for the Nitro Police Department.
No Reported Injuries at This Time
As of the latest update, authorities have not released information regarding injuries. The focus remains on safely removing the overturned vehicle and reopening the westbound lanes. The incident underscores the importance of rapid coordination among municipal police, fire departments, and county EMS when unexpected roadway hazards arise.
What Residents Should Know
- Check local traffic reports or the Kanawha County Highway Patrol website for real‑time updates on the I‑64 closure.
- Use the Institute exit and Route 25 detour if traveling westbound on I‑64 near Nitro.
- Allow extra travel time while the scene is being cleared.
- Stay alert for any additional signage or instructions from law‑enforcement officers on site.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and will provide further information as it becomes available. Residents are encouraged to exercise caution and follow official guidance until the highway is fully reopened.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.