Dramatic Crash Sends Truck Over I-10 Bridge in Lake Charles

Multiple vehicles involved in initial incident, leading to a bucket truck going over the side of the bridge

Mar. 22, 2026 at 4:18pm

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A dramatic crash on the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles, Louisiana early Sunday morning resulted in a truck going over the side of the bridge. The initial incident involved multiple vehicles and left three people with minor injuries. A second crash involving a bucket truck attempting to avoid debris then led to that vehicle going over the bridge's edge, though the driver was unharmed.

Why it matters

The incident caused significant traffic delays and backup on the busy interstate highway, highlighting the dangers of highway crashes and the importance of safe driving practices. It also raises questions about infrastructure maintenance and safety measures on the bridge.

The details

Authorities say the initial crash happened around 6:17 a.m. in the eastbound lanes when a single vehicle struck the barrier, setting off a chain reaction involving at least four vehicles. While first responders were still working the initial crash scene, a bucket truck traveling nearby attempted to avoid debris left in the roadway, swerved into westbound traffic, and ultimately went over the side of the bridge near its base.

  • The initial crash occurred around 6:17 a.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
  • The bucket truck incident happened shortly after the initial crash as crews were still on the scene.

The players

Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development

The state agency responsible for maintaining the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge and overseeing the investigation and repairs following the crash.

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What’s next

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development confirmed that the right lane of I-10 westbound over the Calcasieu River Bridge remains closed for inspection and repairs following the crash. Officials say updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The takeaway

This dramatic crash on the I-10 bridge in Lake Charles underscores the importance of highway safety and the need for robust infrastructure maintenance to prevent such incidents. The fact that no lives were lost is fortunate, but the incident caused significant traffic disruptions and raises questions about potential vulnerabilities on this critical transportation route.