Semi Hits Bridge on I-494 in Richfield; Debris Injures Another Driver, Shuts Down Highway for Hours
Originally posted by MN Big Rigs/Facebook.
Published: March 25, 2026
RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA - RICHFIELD, MN — A crash involving a semi-truck load striking a bridge and then striking a following passenger vehicle led to several hours of roadway disruptions Tuesday evening, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. Troopers were dispatched at approximately 7:21 p.m. on March 24, 2026, to the area of westbound I-494 just west of Highway 77 in Richfield for a reported two-vehicle crash.
The post below was made by MN Big Rigs on Facebook around 7:45 PM, shortly after the crash had occurred.
Crash Details
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a semi-truck traveling westbound on I-494 struck the underside of a bridge with its load. The impact caused the metal scaffolding being transported on the trailer to dislodge. Investigators say portions of that scaffolding then fell into the roadway and struck a vehicle traveling behind the semi, and scattered across the roadway.
The driver of the second vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries as a result of the incident. No injuries were reported for the semi driver or a passenger inside the impacted vehicle.
Following the crash, part of the westbound I-494 was shut down to allow emergency crews to respond and clear debris from the roadway. Eventually, one lane was opened, but the closure remained in place for several hours, from approximately 7:21 p.m. until 12:02 a.m.
Ongoing Investigation
The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the crash, including the factors that led to the semi striking the bridge and whether load-height restrictions may have played a role.
No additional details have been released at this time.
Written by: Will Wight
Cover Photo Provided by MN Big Rigs/Facebook of MnDOT Camera.
