Morgantown Closes County Route 77 After Vehicle Fire
The West Virginia Division of Highways has restricted access to the road following a traffic accident and blaze.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Accidents
The West Virginia Division of Highways has closed County Route 77 to traffic following a vehicle fire near Morgantown. The closure remains in place while emergency teams manage the scene.
Why it matters
The closure is necessary to handle a vehicle fire that occurred at mile marker 145.5 on Interstate 79. Traffic flow in the area is significantly impacted as the interstate's northbound lanes also remain shut.
County Route 77 is currently closed at mile marker 145.5, with traffic being managed by on-site flaggers. Local traffic and emergency vehicles are the only exceptions permitted to access the route.
The players
West Virginia Division of Highways
This state agency is responsible for the planning, engineering, construction, and maintenance of the road network across West Virginia.
The details
The closure follows a vehicle fire that broke out at mile marker 145.5 on Interstate 79. While the highway remains closed, local traffic is being diverted to ensure continued access for residents and emergency responders.
Timeline
The vehicle fire occurred at 4 a.m. on October 20, 2026.
County Route 77 was closed throughout October 20, 2026.
The closure is expected to last until late in the evening on October 20, 2026.
Legal Context
The road closure follows the standard traffic management protocols for I-79 incident response in Monongalia County. These measures ensure that emergency vehicles maintain access while preventing civilian traffic from entering dangerous zones.
Commuters should expect delays near the affected area as flaggers control traffic flow on County Route 77. Local residents and emergency services are prioritized, but general traffic should seek alternative routes while northbound lanes on I-79 are blocked.
The takeaway
Drivers are advised to exercise caution and follow the guidance of flaggers stationed along the detour route. Planning for significant travel delays remains essential until the highway fully reopens.
Further reading
For more updates on local travel conditions, visit Morgantown accidents.
