Police situation forces closure of I-17 in Phoenix during rush hour

PHOENIX — A police situation closed a major Phoenix highway in the midst of rush hour on Friday.

The Arizona Department of Transportation said the situation closed the Interstate 17 northbound at Indian School Road around 5 p.m.

The freeway was partially reopened around 5:15 p.m. to “to release motorists who were stuck in the queue past the closure point,” but it was again closed around 5:45 p.m.

The HOV and left lanes were re-opened around 6:35 p.m.

The department did not disclose any more details.

The Phoenix Police Department said in a tweet that someone was walking on the highway.

Camelback and I-17 restricted due to pedestrian walking on I-17. Please seek alternate routes. pic.twitter.com/N3ATPZ4H35

— Phoenix Police (@phoenixpolice) March 17, 2018

There was no estimated reopening time. Motorists were encouraged to take an alternate route.

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