10-Car Crash In Williamson County Leads To Critical Injuries

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TEXAS — A traffic accident involving 10 vehicles in the nearby city of Florence on Friday night left two crash victims critically injured, the Williamson County Sheriff's Office said.

The pileup occurred along Highway 195, prompting the closure of the artery at Patterson Avenue both northbound and southbound, officials said. Although the accident resulted in no fatalities, according to officials, two people were transported to an area hospital in critical condition.

The Texas Department of Public Safety later said a total of nine people were hospitalized as a result of the crash.

The stretch of roadway was closed in the aftermath of the crash to accommodate a police investigation before being reopened by 9:30 p.m. But a second collision involving a deputy's vehicle occurred once the highway was opened up again, prompting the sheriff to order it re-closed.

"Once Hwy 195 bridge was reopened another collision occurred," Sheriff Robert Chody wrote on Twitter. "A deputies [sic} vehicles was hit. We are encouraging all traffic to avoid this bridge at all costs. We are requesting to shut bridge down temporarily until it is safe. Units have bridge shut down AGAIN."

Roads were made slippery following rain and sleet amid temperatures near the freezing mark on Friday. Emergency officials from throughout the region urged motorists to be extra cautious while driving under such weather conditions, particularly when traveling on bridges an overpasses.

Florence is located about 30 miles north of Cedar Park.

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