Fiery Collision on Interstate 49 Causes North and Southbound Closure

Emergency crews respond to multi-vehicle crash near Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A major crash involving two commercial vehicles and a resulting fire has forced the closure of Interstate 49 near milepost 140 in Natchitoches, Louisiana. The incident occurred around 1:40 p.m. on Thursday, with both northbound and southbound lanes being shut down as emergency response teams work the scene. Traffic is being diverted off the interstate as the Louisiana State Police investigates the cause of the collision.

Why it matters

Interstate 49 is a major thoroughfare connecting northern and southern Louisiana, so the closure will significantly impact travel and commerce in the region until the roadway can be cleared and reopened. Fiery crashes involving commercial vehicles also raise concerns about public safety and environmental hazards.

The details

According to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office, the crash occurred on I-49 southbound just north of Natchitoches. Emergency responders from Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS and Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #6 are on the scene. Both northbound and southbound lanes near milepost 140 have been closed, with traffic being diverted to alternate routes including Posey Road and Johnson Chute Road to Louisiana Highway 1.

  • The crash occurred around 1:40 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency responding to the incident and assisting with traffic control.

Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS

The emergency medical services provider responding to the scene.

Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #6

The local fire department responding to the incident and working to extinguish the fire.

Louisiana State Police, Troop E

The state police agency that will serve as the lead investigative authority for the crash.

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What’s next

The Louisiana State Police will continue their investigation into the cause of the collision and provide additional details as they become available. Once the scene is cleared, the northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 49 near milepost 140 will be reopened to traffic.

The takeaway

This fiery crash on a major Louisiana interstate highlights the importance of commercial vehicle safety, emergency response preparedness, and efficient traffic management to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety during such incidents.