Chesapeake Bay Bridge Lanes Reopened After Crash, 13 Injured

MARYLAND — A crash involving multiple vehicles on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on Saturday snarled traffic and closed multiple lanes, according to state transportation authorities.

After closing for about six hours, all westbound lanes of the heavily traveled U.S. 50 Bay Bridge reopened shortly before 2 p.m., according to the Maryland Transportation Authority. The first crash happened about 7:30 a.m.

Earlier in the day, drivers were told they should expect "major delays" after MDTA closed all westbound lanes following the crash. To mitigate delays, officials said eastbound and westbound traffic alternated turns on the eastbound bridge as authorities worked to clear the crash.

WTOP reported 23 vehicles were involved in a chain-reaction crash on the westbound span, citing a release from the Maryland Transportation Authority. Then, about 20 more vehicles were involved in a series of secondary crashes.

Thirteen people were taken to the hospital, including two with serious injuries taken to Maryland Shock Trauma. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening, the MDTA said.

Also known as the William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge, the bridge crosses the Chesapeake Bay and connects Maryland’s Eastern Shore and several metropolitan areas including Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.