JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 32-year-old Jacksonville woman died Thursday morning when a semitractor-trailer and another vehicle collided on southbound Interstate 295 at Blanding Boulevard, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Troopers said the woman struck the semitruck, which was traveling at a reduced speed due to heavy traffic, from behind about 8:15 a.m.
The crash left all southbound lanes blocked just north of Blanding Boulevard for several hours. As of about 11:45 a.m., all lanes had reopened.
Drivers were encouraged to seek alternate routes during the closure.
Duval County Fatal Crash. I-295 Southbound at Blanding Blvd. Vehicle vs. Tractor Trailer. One confirmed deceased on scene. All southbound lanes are blocked. Please seek alternate route. pic.twitter.com/sK1eruFw8f
— FHPJacksonville (@FHPJacksonville) February 10, 2022
At one point, the Orange Park Police Department indicated the traffic backup was spilling over onto U.S. 17.
We are experiencing significant backed up traffic on US17 northbound due to traffic accidents on the interstate. Please do not block intersections and ensure there is enough room for your vehicle to cross the intersection before entering it. pic.twitter.com/vAQbNvv1S5
— Orange Park Police (@OPPoliceDept) February 10, 2022
Troopers said the driver of the semitruck, a 56-year-old Indiana man, was not hurt.