**Fatal Crash on Alligator Alley Claims One Life, Closes Southbound Lanes**

**COLLIER COUNTY, Fla.** – A multi-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck early this morning on Alligator Alley has left one person dead and several others injured, prompting a full closure of the interstate’s southbound lanes and causing major traffic disruptions.

The fatal incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Interstate 75 near mile marker 49, close to the border separating Collier and Broward counties. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the collision involved a commercial semi-truck and two other vehicles, one of which was towing a boat.

Tragically, one individual, identified as being from Miami, was pronounced dead at the scene. Multiple other people sustained injuries in the crash. Emergency responders airlifted at least two of the injured victims to area hospitals for treatment. Their current conditions are unknown.

In the wake of the crash, authorities were forced to close all southbound lanes of I-75 for several hours to allow for emergency response, victim extraction, and a preliminary investigation. The closure created a significant traffic backup, stranding motorists for miles on the crucial east-west thoroughfare.

While one lane has since reopened, significant delays persist. The FHP is strongly advising southbound travelers to avoid the area entirely and seek alternate routes, such as U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail), to bypass the crash scene.

The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. FHP troopers are working to determine the factors that led to the collision. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.

Motorists are encouraged to check the Florida Department of Transportation’s traffic website or app for real-time updates on lane reopenings and traffic conditions before attempting to travel through the area.