HUNTERSVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA — A jackknifed tractor-trailer crash with a fuel spill caused major delays on Interstate 77 South in Huntersville Monday morning, blocking two lanes and prompting a hazardous materials response as crews worked to pump fuel from the truck and clear the roadway.

According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the wreck happened around 9:45 a.m. near mile marker 21.6. Officials said the right two lanes of the four-lane highway were blocked, creating heavy backups and a high impact on traffic in the area.

The Huntersville Fire Department said I-77 South at Gilead Road was closed due to the jackknifed tractor-trailer and fuel spill, and the crash was located near Hambright Road. Fire officials said traffic was being forced through express lanes while crews worked at the scene.

HazMat crews responded to assist with fuel spill cleanup. Officials said all fuel was pumped off the tractor-trailer by 11:07 a.m., and the scene was then turned over to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol for the next phase of the response and investigation.

Motorists were advised to use caution and consider alternate routes due to the significant delays. Officials said the lanes were expected to reopen by about 1:45 p.m. Monday.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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