Tractor-trailer crash closes I-85 Southbound at I-77. Lanes may be closed until noon.

A crash involving a tractor-trailer blocked Interstate 85 southbound in north Charlotte Wednesday morning, and snarled morning commute traffic into the city.

Delays could last until noon, according to N.C. Department of Transportation.

The wreck happened on I-85 southbound near I-77 southbound, between Statesville Road and Brookshire Boulevard, Observer news partner WBTV reported. Debris could be seen scattered across the roadway.

Around 9 a.m., traffic on I-85 south was backed up for about 5 miles from the wreck with cars moving at a slow crawl as far away as University City Boulevard.

To avoid the interstate, commuters began using Graham and Tryon streets to get to uptown Charlotte, which led to congestion on side roads.

As of 10 a.m., there were no details on what caused the crash.

Drivers my use I-85 northbound to I-485 outer to I-77 as an alternate to re-access I-85 while lanes are closed.

For live traffic updates, visit the NCDOT DriveNC.gov website.

This story was originally published February 19, 2020 at 8:44 AM.