At least 4 dead, multiple injured in 50-car pileup crash on Ohio Turnpike

SANDUSKY COUNTY, Ohio (WOIO) - At least four people are dead and multiple people are injured after a 50-car pileup crash on the Ohio Turnpike on Friday, according to Ohio State Highway Patrol officials.

The crash happened early in the afternoon of Dec. 23 between State Route 53 and Route 4 in Sandusky County, according to OSHP Sgt. Ray Santiago.

Multiple agencies are helping transport people stuck on the Turnpike by bus to local facilities, according to OSHP Sgt. Ryan Purpura.

Both lanes of traffic are closed due to the massive pileup, officials said.

Eastbound traffic is being diverted at State Route 53 while westbound traffic is being diverted at State Route 250, Purpura confirmed.

Officials said initial crashes began at 11:45 a.m. according to OSHP officials, saying two people were injured in a five-car crash near State Route 2.

Multiple cars crashed shortly after at around 12:30 p.m.

The crash came during frigid temps and strong winds, with Sandusky County under a level 3 snow emergency as of late Friday afternoon.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine issued a statement on the crash, asking for those on the road to remain cautious while on the road.

OSHP officials said the westbound lanes re-opened as of 11:25 p.m.

OSHP announced all lanes were re-opened on the turnpike as of 5:15 p.m. on Dec. 24.

Jerry Hruby, chairman of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, issued a statement on the crash offering his sympathy to those impacted by the crash.

Our deepest sympathy goes to those affected by this tragic event, especially the families of those who lost their lives. You are in our prayers. There are hundreds of unnamed individuals – staff from the Ohio Turnpike, Ohio State Highway Patrol, all local safety agencies, and emergency/medical staff as well as civilian support – who we are so very proud of and appreciate you and recognize your importance during the rescue efforts. On behalf of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, we sincerely appreciate your efforts under the extreme winter storm conditions. All are to be commended. Please be assured of our continued support and our heartfelt thank you.

This is a developing story. Return to 19 News for updates.

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