A multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 26 East in Polk County, North Carolina early on September 25 resulted in minor injuries and the death of two cows after two tractor-trailers collided with two Polk County EMS vehicles that were responding to a separate accident.

According to WLOS News, the crash occurred around 8:05 a.m. near mile marker 66. The morning began with a separate crash reported at 7:45 a.m., prompting EMS units to respond to the scene. As emergency crews were working on the shoulder, one tractor-trailer attempted to reduce speed and move over, but a second truck behind it failed to slow in time and collided with the first.

One of the trucks was transporting 34 cows from Indiana to South Carolina. Two of the animals were severely injured in the crash and had to be euthanized on-site by Animal Services. The driver of the cattle truck was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

The crash forced authorities to shut down I-26 East for several hours, leading to long backups. Polk County officials coordinated with two additional cattle transport trucks to transfer the remaining animals later in the day, which further extended the road closure.

Officials urged drivers to avoid the area as crews worked to clear the scene and safely manage the livestock.