Lake Charles, Louisiana - A vehicle crash is blocking the entire intersection of East McNeese Street and Gerstner Memorial Boulevard in Lake Charles on Monday morning, according to the Lake Charles Police Department.
Police reported the incident at 8 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 15. The intersection is currently shut down in all directions, and officers estimate it will remain closed for the next couple of hours while they work the scene and clear the roadway.
Authorities did not immediately release details on how many vehicles were involved, whether there were any injuries, or what may have led to the crash.
Traffic Impact and Detours
With the entire intersection blocked, drivers in Lake Charles should expect delays in the area around East McNeese Street and Gerstner Memorial Boulevard. Motorists are advised to:
- Avoid the intersection if possible
- Use alternate routes to reach destinations east–west and north–south in this part of Lake Charles
- Allow extra travel time during the closure window
Because this is a major crossroads for local traffic, the closure may affect school, work, and business commutes nearby.
Ongoing Response
Lake Charles Police remain on scene managing traffic and overseeing the response to the crash. The intersection is expected to stay closed for at least a couple of hours, but the timeline could change depending on how long it takes to investigate the incident and remove the vehicles and any debris.
No estimate has been given yet for a precise reopening time. Officials typically reopen intersections in stages, first clearing part of the roadway, then restoring full traffic flow once the scene is fully safe.
What Drivers Should Know
While details are limited, crashes that block an entire intersection often involve:
- Vehicle recovery, which can require tow trucks and sometimes specialized equipment
- Scene investigation, where officers document positions, damage, and roadway conditions
- Roadway cleanup, including removal of debris and possible fluid spills
These steps can take time, even when the crash involves only a small number of vehicles.