4:48 p.m. update
First responders said that as of 4:48 p.m., U.S. 31 has reopened after accident cleanup
3:45 P.M. update:
Three people were transported by Lifeline helicopter to trauma centers after a four-vehicle accident at 1:32 p.m. Thursday on U.S. 31 between County Road 300E and 100S, near Woodlawn Mobile Home Park.
Bartholomew County Sheriff deputies said four vehicles collided in the accident, including two SUVs, a passenger car and a commercial pickup truck which was fully involved in flames when first responders arrived.
Two individuals were transported by Lifeline helicopter from the scene, including the most seriously injured, a child who was in the back seat of one of the vehicles, deputies said. Another victim was initially taken to Columbus Regional Hospital by ambulance, but was then taken by Lifeline helicopter to a trauma center.
One person in the car, and the truck driver, were uninjured, deputies said.
At one point, first responders asked for multiple helicopters to fly to the scene, but then scaled back to two as the investigation continued. Multiple ambulances were also called to the scene.
An emergency notification was sent out asking motorists to avoid the area due to the highway intersection being closed for several hours. Deputies said the roadway was scheduled to reopen by 4:30 p.m. Thursday.
ORIGINAL STORY
COLUMBUS, Ind. — Bartholomew County Sheriff’s deputies are requesting motorists avoid the area of U.S. 31 between County Road 300E and County Road 100S in front of Woodlawn Mobile Home Park due to a large accident involving as many as four vehicles, with one of the vehicles reportedly on fire.
Multiple ambulances were sent to the scene, and at one point, three helicopters were requested, although later first responders called off at least one. The accident was reported at 1:32 p.m. and a traffic backup has ensued as a result of the accident.
The road is expected to be closed for several hours, according to first responders.
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