Crash on I-49 near Belton closes multiple lanes

UPDATE: I-49 has reopened. Police say several of the semis remain in the median, but this is not affecting traffic. The trucks will be removed Wednesday night after rush hour.

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BELTON, Mo. (KCTV) - Several semi trucks involved in a crash on I-49 have left multiple lanes closed Wednesday afternoon.

According to KCSCOUT, the accident happened between East 171st and East 163rd on I-49 in Belton. Four semis could be seen in the median between north and southbound lanes.

Police say at around 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, multiple crashes occurred involving six semi trucks, and animal transport trailer, a wrecker truck, and a Ford Explorer. Some vehicle either slid off the roadway to avoid a collision or struck another vehicle.

Traffic is down to one lane both ways, causing major back ups in the area. The estimated clear time is several hours, so drivers should avoid the area if possible and find alternate routes.

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