Several northbound lanes of Interstate 55 were closed for hours Thursday morning in the southwest suburbs after a high-speed crash sent a vehicle crashing onto the interstate, killing one person and injuring another. The incident triggered widespread traffic disruptions during the peak rush hour commute and prompted authorities to urge motorists to avoid the area while an investigation was underway.
The crash occurred at approximately 4:23 a.m. along Frontage Road near Taylor Road in Romeoville, according to local police. Authorities said a vehicle traveling westbound on Frontage Road at a high rate of speed failed to navigate a curve, went airborne, and smashed through a sound barrier wall separating the roadway from northbound I-55. After breaking through the barrier, the vehicle landed on the interstate, where it was struck by another car traveling north.
Emergency responders arrived to find extensive damage at the scene, including a large opening in the sound barrier wall and debris scattered across multiple lanes of the highway. The driver of the speeding vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle traveling on I-55 sustained injuries that were described as non-life-threatening and was transported for medical evaluation.
Due to the severity of the crash and the debris field, northbound traffic on I-55 was shut down for an extended period. Police said the closure would remain in effect for the foreseeable future as investigators worked to document the scene, assess structural damage, and clear wreckage from the roadway. Frontage Road between Airport Road and Taylor Road was also closed as part of the response.
Traffic congestion quickly built up across the area, affecting commuters traveling from Joliet, Plainfield, and surrounding communities. A detour was established at U.S. 30, directing drivers to use Division Street and Weber Road to rejoin I-55. Despite the detour, authorities reported that some motorists became stuck in lengthy backups on I-55 and nearby surface streets as traffic volume increased near sunrise.
Officials repeatedly advised drivers to avoid the area if possible, warning that delays extended well beyond the detour points. By later in the morning, traffic crews were able to open a single northbound lane past the crash site, allowing vehicles to move through the area slowly while cleanup and repairs continued.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Police have not released the identity of the deceased driver, pending notification of next of kin. Authorities said additional updates would be provided as more information becomes available and urged drivers to remain alert and cautious while traveling through active construction and investigation zones.
