GASTONIA, N.C. — Interstate 85 is back open in Gastonia after being closed for a death investigation on Monday, officials said.
The road was closed southbound near the exit for Eastridge Mall, which is Exit 20 for North New Hope Road. Delays stretched several miles through at least McAdenville and Belmont. The road was initially expected to be closed until around 3 p.m but it reopened by 12:45 p.m.
There's still heavy congestion throughout the area due to the closure. Drivers should avoid the area if possible due to slow-moving traffic.
Gastonia Police confirmed one person died in the area. No further details were released.
As a detour, the North Carolina Department of Transportation suggests drivers use Exit 21 for Cox Rd, turn right on Cox Rd, turn left to East Ozark Ave and then back to I-85 South. Another detour suggests using Exit 27 for NC 273 southbound, turn right to US 29 (also known as US 74 or West Wilkinson Blvd) and then continue west back to I-85.
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