Anchorage commuters delayed after fatal multi-vehicle crash on southbound Glenn Highway

Crash near weigh station closes southbound Glenn Highway during morning commute

Anchorage police and fire crews responded to a multi-vehicle collision in the southbound lanes of the Glenn Highway near the Anchorage weigh station Thursday morning that resulted in at least one fatality and prompted lengthy traffic delays.

Officers were dispatched to reports of an injury crash just after 8 a.m., and an update posted by police at 11:15 a.m. said first responders found multiple vehicles involved and confirmed at least one death at the scene. One southbound lane reopened shortly before 12:30 p.m., according to the update.

• Location: southbound Glenn Highway, near the Anchorage weigh station in the S curves
• Initial response time: about 8 a.m.; police update at 11:15 a.m.
• Lane status: one southbound lane reopened before 12:30 p.m.; closures during morning commute

The highway closure came in the middle of the busy Thursday morning commute and produced significant backups. Photos and videos from the scene showed traffic stopped for miles; drivers headed south reportedly were stopped at the Anchorage landfill exit and turned around there.

Emergency response and community support

Numerous units from the Anchorage Fire Department responded. In a Facebook post, the department described the incident as a "horrific wreck" and offered assistance to bystanders and others affected.

“Thank you to those who did everything possible to help the people involved. We understand the mental and emotional turmoil that comes along with attempting to save lives and even witnessing a scene. If you may have been impacted by the events this morning, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

The post directed people in need of support to call 3-1-1, pick option one and ask for the municipality’s Mobile Crisis Team (MCT). The MCT can provide in-person or phone visits and help with longer-term care and connections to other municipal resources. Officials also noted additional resources are available online through the municipality.

What this means for Anchorage

The crash underscores recurring vulnerabilities on the Glenn Highway, one of Anchorage’s major commuter routes. Closures in the S curves area can quickly cascade into widespread delays, affecting workers, school transportation and freight movement in and out of the city. Investigators from Anchorage police remained at the scene during the morning and early afternoon as they worked to clear the roadway and document the collision.

This is a developing story. Police asked drivers to expect ongoing delays in the area while investigators and recovery crews complete their work.

Anchorage residents seeking help after witnessing the crash can contact the municipality at 3-1-1 and request the Mobile Crisis Team. Officials encouraged anyone impacted by the morning’s events to reach out for support.