The interstate has reopened. The Florida Highway Patrol reports there are twelve separate investigations.  Fifty-two patients were injured in the crash involving 47 vehicles. (22 Transported to Sarasota Hospital – 10 Transported to Manatee Hospital) Two were transported via Bayflite with non-Life threatening injuries.

Earlier:

The Florida Highway Patrol reports an accident involving 47 vehicles in the southbound lands of I-75 at the Manatee/Sarasota County line. Vehicles traveling southbound need to exit at Stateroad 70 and re-enter at Fruitville Road which is mm210.

Three people were airlifted to BayFront Medical Center.  Fifty two people were injured. 

Manatee County and Charlotte County are sending fire apparatus to help cover calls for service.

The Red Cross has been called in to assist with firefighter rehab at the incident location.

Earlier:

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s office reports an accident involving an estimated 30 to 50 vehicles in the southbound lanes of I-75 on the overpass at University Parkway, on the Manatee/Sarasota County line.  Both southbound lanes are closed.

There is at least one trauma alert to which Bayflite is responding. There are at least two extrications and 10 to12 patients at this time.

There is possibly a tanker leaking liquid calcium which the sheriff’s spokesperson says is not considered hazardous.

The Sarasota County Fire Department has 18 units on scene along with additional units from the Manatee County Fire Department.

All area hospitals have been notified.

Southbound traffic is being detoured at State Road 70 in Bradenton. The FHP estimates the interstate will be closed for three or more hours.