Multiple reported crashes along Interstate 75 have brought southbound stretches to a crawl Friday afternoon, with traffic cameras showing heavy congestion throughout Ocala and Marion County.
Southbound commuters on Interstate 75 are facing significant delays Friday evening following a wave of accidents that have slowed traffic across Marion County.
The congestion began building late in the afternoon as multiple incidents were reported to the Florida Highway Patrol. At approximately 3:52 p.m., two accidents were reported: One near mile marker 368 in Reddick, involving a vehicle in the median, and another further south at mile marker 350 in Ocala.
Another accident was reported at mile marker 357 in Ocala, followed by a fourth incident at 4:46 p.m. near mile marker 338 in the Summerfield area. It is unclear as of 4:57 p.m.
Traffic camera images provided by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) capture the extent of the gridlock.
The photos show congestion stretching for miles, with southbound lanes heavily congested as emergency crews work to clear the various scenes. In several sections, traffic appears to be at a total standstill, with heavy backup visible near major Ocala interchanges.
Motorists currently traveling through the area should expect extreme delays. With incidents spanning nearly 30 miles of the interstate, many drivers are seeking alternate routes such as U.S. Hwy 441 and U.S. Hwy 301 to bypass the heavy southbound flow.
Authorities have not yet released information regarding potential injuries in these crashes.
Drivers are urged to remain patient, maintain a safe following distance, and keep an eye out for first responders still active on the roadway.
This story is breaking. Ocala-News.com will update this story as additional details are made available by the Florida Highway Patrol and Florida Department of Transportation.