Four people lost their lives after a major collision involving nearly fifty vehicles on the M-11 Neva highway in the Novgorod region, according to the regional governor who shared the update via his Telegram channel. The mishap has prompted a broad emergency response as authorities work to secure the area and assist those affected. The news underscores the severity of winter travel hazards and the importance of rapid accident response in keeping highways safe for all motorists. At the scene, responders are focusing on triage, mutual aid, and the steady flow of information to the public. The governor emphasized that emergency teams are deployed to provide the required support to victims and to maintain order during a chaotic incident. This situation has immediate implications for traffic management and regional emergency planning. [Agency Report]
In updates from the governor, the collision is described as a very large incident on the M-11 Neva corridor connecting the Novgorod region with other parts of the country. The authorities indicated that a substantial number of vehicles were involved and that casualties included several people who could not be saved. The official noted that the response would continue to adapt as more details emerge and that facilities were being put in place at the site to support rescue operations and displaced travelers. [Agency Report]
Regional services have stepped in to deliver the necessary assistance, with a temporary heating point established at the scene to address the cold conditions and provide relief for those stranded or injured. Emergency responders are coordinating with medical teams to stabilize the injured and transport the most seriously affected individuals to medical facilities. The presence of a heating point highlights the immediate needs faced by people waiting for help in challenging weather and traffic conditions. [Agency Report]
Earlier reports noted that approximately 30 vehicles were involved in a multi-vehicle crash on the Novgorod section of the M-11 Neva around 14:45 local time. Initial information suggested injuries and fatalities, including minors who could not be saved by medical staff. Investigators are reviewing the sequence of events and the contributing factors, while police and rescue teams continue to work at the scene to document the incident and coordinate response efforts. [Agency Report]
Officials have stated that traffic to Moscow was halted to facilitate emergency operations, with a detour of about 545 kilometers arranged and access routes redirected to the M-10 highway. The temporary road closures underscore the complexity of large-scale incidents and the need for clear diversion plans to minimize disruption for other travelers. Investigators are collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the causes and chronology of the crash. [Agency Report]
In related notes, it was reported that there had been other collisions in nearby regions earlier in the day, including a separate incident in Kaliningrad involving several vehicles. Authorities continue to monitor road conditions, respond to emergencies, and provide updates as information becomes available. The ongoing investigation aims to establish the factors behind the event and to guide future safety measures for high-traffic corridors like the M-11 Neva. [Agency Report]