Virginia State Police are investigating a major multi-vehicle crash that occurred Thursday, September 25, 2025, at approximately 5:08 p.m. on northbound Interstate 81 near mile marker 181.
The crash involved six tractor-trailers, two passenger vehicles, and a medical transport van. Authorities confirmed there was no patient aboard the transport at the time. Troopers reported multiple non-life-threatening injuries, as well as one fatality. The deceased has been identified as 36-year-old Abdiqadir Ahmed Nur of Shakopee, Minnesota. Nur, who was wearing a seatbelt, died at the scene after his vehicle collided with several tractor-trailers in a chain-reaction pileup.
Investigators believe the crash occurred during heavy rainfall as traffic slowed for an earlier two-vehicle accident. The resulting chain-reaction collision blocked the roadway, causing significant disruption.
The driver of the medical transport van sustained serious injuries and was transported by ground to Rockbridge Community Hospital after a helicopter transfer was delayed due to weather conditions. Hazardous materials teams were called to clean up fuel spills and debris, while VDOT set up detours to Route 11. All northbound lanes were reopened by 1:00 a.m. Friday.
The Virginia State Police Crash Reconstruction Team is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities continue to urge drivers to use caution in inclement weather.
