CHARLOTTE, NC (LOOTPRESS) — A late-night crash on I-77 South led to a harrowing rescue after an overhead interstate sign collapsed onto a vehicle, trapping the driver beneath twisted metal. Charlotte Fire crews were dispatched just before midnight, arriving within minutes to find a severe entrapment and a chaotic scene scattered across the roadway.
Engine 12 was first on scene, immediately confirming that the driver was pinned inside the crushed vehicle and beginning patient care. Ladder 20 — which only entered service earlier this month — and Rescue 10 arrived moments later, working in tandem to perform what officials described as a complex extrication. Despite the massive steel sign structure lying across the vehicle, crews were able to free the trapped driver in under 30 minutes.
Additional companies, including members of the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team, responded to support the technical operation and help bring the scene under control. Firefighters battled both the cold night air and significant structural hazards as they worked to stabilize the wreckage.
Two patients were transported to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center with serious injuries, according to Charlotte Fire.
“Despite the challenging conditions, our crews operated with precision and teamwork to manage the incident safely and protect everyone on scene,” the department said. “Charlotte Fire remains committed to serving this community in the most unpredictable moments.”
The North Carolina Department of Transportation reported that the sign structure was struck by a suspected impaired driver prior to the collapse. Charlotte Fire officials noted they are not the lead agency for that portion of the investigation but will continue to support partner agencies as needed.
