Updated March 18, 2026, 5:17 p.m. CT
Fatal Crash Closes I-35 Near West Des Moines
Interstate 35 southbound near West Des Moines has reopened following a fatal crash on Wednesday, March 18.
According to Iowa 511, southbound I-35 has resumed normal traffic from Exit 70: Mills Civic Parkway to I-80. The West Des Moines Police Department reported the closure near the EP True Parkway overpass began after 1 p.m. when authorities were alerted to a driver traveling the wrong way.
The incident involved three vehicles, with one driver suffering fatal injuries. The two remaining drivers were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
“We will be closing I-35 southbound to allow responders to do their work safely,” the West Des Moines Police stated. “The roadway will be reopened when it is safe for responders.”
Detour Information for I-35 Southbound
Drivers were redirected to exit at the southwest mixmaster, taking I-80 westbound to Jordan Creek Parkway. From there, they can head south on Jordan Creek Parkway, turn east on Mills Civic Parkway, and reconnect to I-35 southbound at that interchange.
This story was updated to include additional information.