Semi Crash Shuts Down Portions of I-55 in Bolingbrook, Causing Major Traffic Disruptions
BOLINGBROOK, Ill. — A serious crash involving a semi-truck caused significant traffic disruptions along Interstate 55 in the south suburbs Monday afternoon, according to the Illinois State Police (ISP). The incident occurred around milepost 268 near IL-53 in Bolingbrook, prompting the closure of all northbound lanes and at least one lane on the southbound side.
The crash, which was first reported shortly after 1 p.m., involved a truck tractor semi-trailer that rolled over, coming to rest across multiple lanes. Aerial footage from Chopper 7 showed the aftermath of the crash, including debris and what appeared to be the semi’s cargo — aluminum beer bottles — scattered across the roadway.
Motorists faced immediate and severe delays, with northbound traffic diverted to IL-53 as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and assess the damage. The cause of the rollover remains under investigation, and authorities have yet to confirm whether any injuries were sustained in the crash.
The scene quickly drew the attention of passersby and commuters as the overturned truck and its spilled cargo brought traffic to a near standstill in both directions. Long lines of vehicles could be seen backed up for miles as ISP and local emergency responders coordinated efforts to reroute vehicles and begin cleanup operations.
As of this time, officials have not released details about the driver of the truck or whether other vehicles were involved. Weather conditions at the time of the crash were reportedly clear, though the full circumstances surrounding the rollover are still being examined.
The semi appeared to be hauling a large load of beverage containers, which authorities confirmed to be aluminum beer bottles — likely contributing to the complexity of the cleanup, as crews needed to not only remove the damaged truck but also manage thousands of loose or damaged containers strewn across the highway.
Motorists traveling through the area were advised to expect long delays and to seek alternative routes where possible. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and tow services remained on scene throughout the afternoon, working to remove the semi and reopen the impacted lanes as quickly as possible.
This incident marks another reminder of the vulnerabilities of heavily traveled interstates like I-55, which often serve as vital commercial and commuter corridors for the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Accidents involving commercial trucks can create not just significant congestion, but serious hazards for other drivers — particularly when cargo spills onto the roadway.
As of the most recent update, no fatalities have been reported, and officials continue to monitor the situation. Motorists are encouraged to stay tuned to local traffic reports and ISP announcements as the cleanup continues and further information becomes available.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as new details emerge.