Accident expected to shut down HWY 71-S for up to 5 hours, Fort Smith police say

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Fort Smith Police (FSPD) have responded to a single-vehicle injury accident near the 11000 block of U.S. Highway 71-South.

Significant traffic delays are expected as accident reconstruction teams will be on-site for the next 3 to 5 hours, according to a news release.

Drivers are encouraged to consider alternate routes while the area remains closed.

If you’re heading into Fort Smith, authorities recommend taking I-49 to Barling and then Rogers Avenue to avoid the affected section of the highway.

Please use caution when traveling through the area or avoid it altogether until the scene is clear.

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