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Botetourt Co. eight-vehicle crash on I-81 leaves one dead

The crash happened near MM 163 on August 16, police said

(Credit: Jana Apergis) (WSLS)

BOTETOURT CO., Va. – UPDATE - Aug. 17

Virginia State Police has released more information about the crash that happened Wednesday (Aug. 16) on Interstate 81 in Botetourt County.

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Police said the crash happened at 3:31 p.m. on I-81 near the 163 mile-marker.

Eight vehicles were involved in the crash, including a tractor-trailer, according to VSP.

As of Thursday afternoon, at least one fatality has been confirmed.

Police said 61-year-old William Towns was driving a 2023 Dodge Ram on I-81 when he slowed for traffic, then was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer.

We’re told Towns was wearing his seatbelt and died at the scene.

Details about other injuries and whether or not charges are anticipated were not available.

Stay with 10 News as this story develops


UPDATE

The crash on Interstate 81 in Botetourt County has been cleared, according to VDOT.

The area had been congested for several hours as crews worked to clean up the area.

10 News is working for you to learn more about what happened. We’ve reached out to Virginia State Police and are waiting to hear back.


ORIGINAL STORY

A crash on Interstate 81 in Botetourt County is causing delays, according to VDOT.

We’re told the crash, which involved a tractor-trailer, happened at mile marker 163.3 on I-81.

As of 9:58 p.m., crews said southbound traffic was backed up for about six miles.

10 News has reached out to Virginia State Police for more information about the crash.

Stick with 10 News for the latest traffic updates


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Alli Graham came aboard the digital team as an evening digital content producer in June 2022.