At least one dead after 8 vehicle crash involving 4 semi trucks shuts down Virginia highway

At least one person is dead after a multi vehicle crash shut down Interstate 81 in Virginia on Wednesday morning. 

The accident happened on March 9th in Rockbridge County on southbound Interstate 81 near mile marker 198.6. 

According to WFXR News, four tractor trailers and four passenger vehicles were involved in the crash that killed one and spilled debris all along the roadway. As of 9:45  a.m. officials were urging motorists to avoid the area, which is expected to remain closed for cleanup and investigation for a substantial amount of time. 

No information regarding the condition of others involved in the wreck has been released. 

Traffic on I-81 south is being diverted at exit 200 in Fairfield, but eight mile backups have still been seen through the area. Motorists are urged to detour on their own at exit 213 in Greenville and take Route 11 to Lexington, which is expected to cause major congestion in that area as well. 

The incident is still under investigation.