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Power lines topple during crash, trapping cars and shutting down road
A driver crashed into a power pole, causing several other poles to topple across the roadway. Some cars were trapped, and part of the roadway is expected to be closed for several more hours.
HOUSTON - A crash knocked down several power poles in north Harris County, trapping cars and blocking the roadway for hours.
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Northbound lanes of Veterans Memorial Drive between Beltway 8 and Gears Road are expected to be closed until 2 p.m. Wednesday as crews clear up the scene and repair damage.
According to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, a 20-year-old driver struck one of the power poles in the 11000 block of Veterans Memorial around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday night, causing an impact to several other poles.
The sheriff says the poles splintered, lines fell and ceramic coils busted. Officials say some cars were trapped under the lines, but everyone got out safely.
The lines fell across the roadway, shutting down traffic in both directions. However, Center Point crews have been working at the scene overnight, and southbound lanes have reopened.
The sheriff says power to some nearby apartments and business centers has been impacted. Repairs continue at the scene, and still expect to be completed by 2 p.m. however, Sheriff Gonzalez noted as of 12:45 p.m., the power poles are back up, cables are being strung and traffic is flowing moderately.