Interstate 35 South, a critical artery connecting San Antonio to cities across Texas, has fully reopened after a major collision brought traffic to a standstill on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The incident, which occurred in the 17000 block of I-35 Southbound near FM 3009 in Schertz, prompted a significant emergency response and led to extended delays throughout the afternoon and early evening.
According to the Schertz Police Department, the collision involved multiple vehicles and occurred just past the FM 3009 overpass. While specific details about the number of vehicles and injuries remain under investigation, authorities confirmed that the crash was severe enough to require full closure of the southbound lanes to ensure safety and allow emergency crews to operate effectively.
The incident was reported shortly before noon, and within minutes, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local emergency services arrived on scene. Firefighters, paramedics, and hazardous materials units were deployed due to concerns about fuel leaks and vehicle entrapment. Traffic was rerouted through nearby frontage roads and alternate highways, including US-281 and Loop 1604, causing ripple effects across the region’s transportation network.
The Schertz Police Department, in coordination with DPS and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), launched a multi-agency response to manage the scene. TxDOT activated its traffic management center to provide real-time updates via electronic message boards and its DriveTexas.org website.
Crews worked swiftly to clear debris, secure hazardous materials, and transport damaged vehicles from the roadway. One lane was reopened by mid-afternoon to allow partial flow, but full restoration of all lanes did not occur until late evening. Officials emphasized that the priority was safety, and no additional accidents were reported in the vicinity during the closure.
The shutdown of I-35 South during a weekday had a major impact on commuters, commercial trucking, and regional travel. I-35 is one of the busiest interstates in Texas, serving as a key route for both local traffic and long-haul freight between Laredo, San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas.
Local businesses near the FM 3009 exit reported increased foot traffic as stranded drivers sought fuel, food, and restrooms. However, delivery services and logistics companies faced significant delays, with some rerouting shipments entirely to avoid the congestion. Ride-share and navigation apps, including Waze and Google Maps, issued real-time alerts advising drivers to avoid the area.
The Schertz Police Department has launched a full investigation into the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that adverse weather conditions, including brief afternoon showers, may have contributed to reduced visibility and slick road surfaces. However, officials have not ruled out factors such as driver impairment, fatigue, or distracted driving.
Investigators are reviewing dashcam footage, traffic camera recordings, and witness statements to determine the sequence of events. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has not been called in, indicating the incident is being treated as a local matter unless new evidence emerges.
In the wake of the incident, transportation officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant, especially during peak travel times and inclement weather. Key safety recommendations include:
TxDOT also encourages drivers to check road conditions before traveling via the DriveTexas.org website or mobile app, which provides live camera feeds, incident reports, and construction updates.
While I-35 South has now fully reopened and traffic is returning to normal, the incident underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to sudden disruptions. Ongoing discussions about expanding I-35 through the San Antonio region, including proposed managed lanes and improved emergency access points, may gain renewed attention in light of this event.
For now, authorities remind the public that safe driving remains everyone’s responsibility. As investigations continue, updates will be shared through official law enforcement and transportation channels.
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