Vermont State Police One lane of I-89 in Highgate has been re-opened. Today at approximately 12:12 pm, the Vermont State Police received a 911 call regarding a plane crash on Interstate 89 in the northbound lane, near mile marker 125, north of exit 21 in the town of Highgate. Initial reports indicated the single passenger plane was fully engulfed in flames and someone parachuted out prior to crashing.
According to WCAX-TV: "Northbound traffic on I-89 was stopped at Exit 21 in Swanton all the way to the Canadian border for nearly an hour before one lane reopened. The second lane remained closed until about 3 p.m. as crews work to remove the burned-out wreckage of the single-passenger plane from the highway."
1:22 pm: Emergency responders remain on scene of today's aircraft crash near mile marker 125, just north of Exit 21, Interstate 89.
First responders indicate that the plane crashed adjacent to the interstate; impacting traffic safety and thereby causing traffic to be delayed and rerouted. Crews have reopened a single lane of travel, northbound; however the right lane may be closed for an extended period of time.
Responders also have verified that the single occupant of the aircraft, the pilot, sustained minor injuries after parachuting to safety and is being provided medical treatment.
Members from the Vermont State Police Bureau of Investigation, along with Vermont Agency of Transportation, are responding to the scene. The Federal Aviation Administration, out of the Maine office, has been notified and will conduct a further investigation.
1:10 pm: One lane on I-89 has reopened to traffic, the right-hand land is expected to remain closed for an extended period still. Further details on the crash are not yet available.
12:22 pm: Traffic will be redirected off the interstate, while emergency crews extinguish the fire and provide medical care. Please find alternative routes.
At this time we cannot confirm injuries, occupants, type of plane, cause of the crash... or any other details until the scene is rendered safe and crews are able to initiate an investigation.
Updates will be provided as possible.
Highgate, VT - 04/18/14 - Vermont State Police