I-70 Eastbound Lanes Closed Near Columbia After Multi-Vehicle Crash

Authorities urge drivers to avoid the area as crews work to clear the scene.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The eastbound lanes of Interstate 70 near Rangeline Street and the connector in Columbia, Missouri have been closed due to a multi-vehicle crash, according to the Columbia Police Department. Drivers are being asked to avoid the area as emergency crews respond to the incident.

Why it matters

Interstate 70 is a major east-west highway that runs through the heart of Columbia, so any closure can cause significant traffic disruptions and delays for commuters and travelers passing through the area.

The details

According to the Columbia Police Department's social media post, the crash involves multiple vehicles. The Missouri Department of Transportation has also advised drivers to use alternate routes while crews work to clear the scene.

  • The crash occurred on March 2, 2026.

The players

Columbia Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the multi-vehicle crash on I-70 and is managing the incident response.

Missouri Department of Transportation

The state transportation agency that is assisting with traffic management and advising drivers to use alternate routes around the closed section of I-70.

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What’s next

Authorities have not provided an estimated timeline for when the eastbound lanes of I-70 near Rangeline Street will reopen. Drivers should continue to avoid the area and use alternate routes until the scene is cleared.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of safe driving and the potential for major traffic disruptions when multi-vehicle crashes occur on busy interstates like I-70 that are critical transportation corridors for communities.