Traffic on I-57 up-and down the interstate was stopped Monday and overnight due to crashes involving semis and passenger vehicles. White-Out conditions forced Illinois State Police to shut down the roadway.

At least two people were transported to hospitals. No firefighters or other emergency workers were injured. But drivers are AGAIN reminded to SLOW DOWN… SLICK PAVEMENT STILL AN ISSUE … icy roads are hampering travel on several area routes.

Ashkum Fire and Chebanse Township Fire joined ISP and other responders all day and overnight assisting motorists.

The Ashkum Fire personnel were on scene for two multi-vehicle crashes --- the first at 11 am (Monday), six jack-knifed semis and 20 passenger cars. Two people were taken to the hospital.

Ashkum Fire Chief Jeff Glenn says it was a White-Out situation along I-57… some drivers slow down, others don’t and the result in multi-vehicle crashes.

A second wreck closed both directions on I-57. Southbound I-57 from Ashkum to Gilman was closed from 11:30 am ‘til 4:30 this (Tues) morning. Northbound I-57 was closed from Ashkum to Clifton from 2 pm ‘til midnight.

Ashkum and Chebanse Township Fire were on the job throughout the mess. Ashkum Fire was called out again to assist during a traffic detour from 6:30 pm ‘til midnight.

94.1 WGFA

             • IDOT crews continue to try to manage the icy roads this (Tues) morning. The Interstate, Routes 24 and 45 are problem areas in Iroquois County.