An accident involving three tractor-trailers caused the closure of both eastbound lanes along U.S. 74 near mile marker 167 and Columbus on Tuesday, Oct. 2. The accident occurred around 2 a.m. Tuesday, and the N.C. Highway Patrol closed the lanes and set up detours. Two of the truck drivers were injured; one was in critical condition as of press time and the other was treated and released. During heavy rains, one tractor-trailer overturned, with the second hitting it and a third truck then striking the second, according to reports. Crews worked to clear the road with dump trucks, and the lanes were reopened Tuesday afternoon. (photo by Gwen Ring)