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Waxahachie, TX (May 7, 2026) – A fatal accident on northbound I-35E in Ellis County prompted a full highway diversion on Wednesday, May 6, shutting down all lanes at the Forreston exit.
Traffic was rerouted onto Highway 77 as emergency units worked the scene. Drivers were urged to avoid the area while crews responded to the crash.
No further details about the circumstances of the crash or the identity of the victim had been released at the time of this writing. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
What Causes Lane Closures After Fatal Crashes on Texas Interstates?
When a fatal crash occurs on a Texas interstate, the affected lanes are typically closed for an extended period to allow emergency and investigative crews to work safely. The scene must be carefully documented before any vehicles are moved, which can take several hours depending on the complexity of the crash. This process is standard practice and helps preserve evidence needed to piece together what happened.
Full lane diversions, like the one that sent traffic off I-35E onto Highway 77, are used when the crash blocks the roadway entirely or when emergency personnel need a safe buffer to operate. Drivers diverted through alternate routes can expect delays, especially on two-lane roads not built for heavy freeway-level traffic volume. Ellis County sits along one of the busiest freight and commuter corridors in North Texas, making any closure on I-35E a significant disruption for the region.
