BOSTON, Suffolk County, Mass., Oct. 19, 2026 — A multi-vehicle crash inside the O'Neill Tunnel on Interstate 93 northbound tied up traffic on Monday morning, October 19, near the Exit 18 (Storrow Drive) area. At least one injury was reported.
The crash was reported around 8:30 a.m. inside the tunnel, a heavily traveled stretch of I-93 that carries commuter traffic through downtown Boston. Multiple vehicles were involved, though the exact number has not been released.
Heavy backups built up on I-93 NB as crews worked the scene, with delays reported stretching well beyond the crash site. It is not yet known whether any lanes remained closed as of this report.
Details on the extent of injuries have not been made public. The severity of the crash and the number of people hurt remain unconfirmed pending an official update.
The cause of the crash has not been determined. No agency has yet released a full account of how the vehicles collided inside the tunnel.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
Local Crash Information for Boston, MA
The crash was reported on Interstate 93 in Boston. For more crash news from the area, see our latest Suffolk County crash news.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm stopped in traffic near a highway crash?
Stay in your lane with your seatbelt on, turn on hazard lights if traffic is stopped, and keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead in case traffic starts and stops suddenly. Avoid getting out of your car on an active highway unless it's unsafe to stay inside.
How does a tunnel environment affect multi-vehicle crashes?
Tunnels limit visibility, sightlines, and escape room for drivers reacting to a sudden slowdown. Lighting changes, confined lanes, and reduced shoulder space can make chain-reaction crashes more likely once one vehicle brakes hard.
Are secondary crashes common after an initial wreck like this?
Yes. Backed-up traffic approaching the scene, especially inside a tunnel where visibility is limited, creates a real risk of additional collisions if drivers don't slow down well before reaching stopped traffic.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in Boston, MA
If you're involved in a multi-vehicle crash in a tunnel or on a highway, try to move to a safe area if your vehicle is drivable, turn on hazard lights, and call 911 to report the crash and any injuries. Even if you feel fine, consider a medical evaluation afterward, since some injuries from sudden braking or impact don't show symptoms right away. Exchange information with other drivers when it's safe to do so, and file a police report if one isn't already being completed at the scene. Photos of vehicle positions and damage, taken only once you're somewhere safe, can help later when sorting out what happened.
