Fog-Triggered I-95 Pileup on Lake Marion Bridge Leaves Multiple Injured, Closes Lanes for 20 Hours

Key points

• The crash occurred on the southbound side of the I-95 bridge over Lake Marion, spanning Clarendon and Orangeburg counties.
• Thick fog drastically reduced visibility, leading to a chain-reaction collision involving 69 vehicles, including 15 tractor-trailers and 54 passenger cars.
• At least two people were seriously injured, with one requiring helicopter evacuation, while others suffered minor injuries.
• First responders faced significant challenges, using hand-held fire extinguishers to manage flames in the wreckage.
• All lanes were blocked from mile markers 97.5 to 102, and the roadway did not fully reopen until around 6 a.m. on October 2, 2026.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of severe weather-related accidents on the I-95 corridor in South Carolina. Previous coverage highlighted similar fog-induced pileups on the same bridge, emphasizing the recurring risk of reduced visibility in this area. The South Carolina Highway Patrol has been investigating the crash to determine the exact sequence of events.

How outlets are covering it

WBTV reported that 92 vehicles were on the bridge at the time, with 69 involved in the wreck, and noted that first responders had to walk to vehicles and use hand-held extinguishers. WCSC emphasized the involvement of 15 18-wheelers and reported 4 entrapments, with 11 minor injuries. Both outlets agreed on the fog as the primary cause and the extended cleanup time, but differed slightly in the total vehicle count and injury details.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the critical safety risks posed by sudden weather changes on major interstate bridges. The extended closure of I-95 disrupted regional traffic and logistics, underscoring the need for improved weather monitoring and emergency response protocols in high-risk areas.

What to watch

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is expected to release a detailed report on the crash, including potential recommendations for improved signage or traffic management on the Lake Marion bridge. Authorities may also review fog detection systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.