LANHAM, Md. — A tractor-trailer struck scaffolding beneath an overpass on the inner loop of I-495 early Tuesday morning, sending metal and debris across the roadway and causing extensive traffic delays in Prince George’s County.

The crash occurred around 2:41 a.m. at the MD-704 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Highway) overpass, just past Exit 19 near U.S. Route 50, according to FOX 5 DC. The impact caused sections of scaffolding and metal to fall onto the Beltway, blocking travel lanes and forcing crews into an extended cleanup operation.

^{Photo credit: MDOT}

Maryland State Police said the tractor-trailer was traveling south on the inner loop when it hit the scaffolding, scattering debris across the interstate. No injuries were reported, but the damage prompted lane closures throughout the morning rush.

Traffic cameras showed first responders lining the roadway as traffic backed up for miles. At one point, all lanes at the overpass were blocked, with vehicles only able to pass using the right shoulder.

Cleanup and structural assessment operations remained underway as authorities continued to investigate what led up to the crash.

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