Southbound I-75 closed at University Parkway after multi-car pileup
Aerial view of Interstate 75 crash. BAY NEWS 9 PHOTO
SARASOTA — Interstate 75’s southbound lanes are closed at University Parkway after a multi-car pileup involving at least 47 vehicles Friday afternoon.
The wreck is on the overpass at University Parkway, on the Manatee/Sarasota County line, according to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. Fifty-two people are reportedly injured, with three flown out by Bayflite helicopters. No fatalities have been reported. The SCSO added there is possibly a tanker leaking liquid calcium, which is not believed to be hazardous. The Sarasota County Fire Department has 18 units on the scene, with the Manatee County Fire Department also providing assistance. Southbound traffic is being detoured at State Road 70 in Bradenton. The Florida Highway Patrol estimates the interstate will be closed for hours and is asking drivers to avoid the area.