Multiple-Victim Shooting in Antrim Township Shuts Down I-81 as MedEvac Helicopters Respond to Tragic Highway Attack

Multiple-Victim Shooting in Antrim Township Shuts Down I-81 as MedEvac Helicopters Respond to Tragic Highway Attack

ANTRIM TOWNSHIP, PA (Franklin County) — A chaotic and tragic scene unfolded late Wednesday afternoon in Antrim Township after a multiple-victim shooting erupted along a stretch of Interstate 81, prompting law enforcement to completely shut down the highway to allow emergency medivac helicopters to land and transport the wounded. The incident has shaken the normally quiet Franklin County community and left residents reeling as investigators work to piece together the series of violent events that turned a busy highway into a scene of horror.

According to early reports from the Pennsylvania State Police, officers were dispatched to the southbound lanes of I-81 near Exit 3 around 4:30 p.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls about gunfire and possible victims along the roadway. Upon arrival, troopers discovered several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds, vehicles riddled with bullets, and panicked motorists who had taken cover along the interstate.

The severity of the situation led first responders to immediately shut down both directions of the interstate to create a landing zone for multiple Life Lion and STAT MedEvac helicopters. The urgent response effort lasted for hours as crews worked to stabilize the wounded and transport them to nearby trauma centers. Officials have not yet released an official count of the injured or deceased, but multiple victims have been confirmed.

Witnesses described the terrifying moments as chaos erupted on the highway. “Cars were stopping everywhere. People were running and screaming,” said one motorist who was traveling southbound at the time of the shooting. “I saw someone fall to the ground, and that’s when I realized how serious it was. It was like something out of a nightmare.”

Law enforcement agencies from Franklin County, Maryland State Police, and the FBI have joined the investigation, as officials believe the shooting may have stemmed from an ongoing dispute that escalated during travel on I-81. Early indications suggest the violence could have been targeted rather than random, though police have not ruled out other motives.

By evening, the crime scene stretched for more than a mile, with forensic teams meticulously documenting shell casings, bullet holes, and vehicle positions. Police drones hovered overhead as investigators mapped out the scene and gathered evidence under floodlights. Traffic was diverted for several hours as authorities worked to clear the interstate and ensure there were no additional threats to public safety.

Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Christopher Keenan addressed reporters later that night, describing the situation as “one of the most chaotic and tragic scenes” his department has dealt with in recent memory. “We had multiple victims, multiple vehicles, and a highly fluid situation unfolding on a busy highway,” Keenan said. “The quick response from law enforcement and emergency medical crews undoubtedly saved lives tonight.”

Local residents, many of whom could see the helicopters landing from nearby overpasses, expressed shock and sorrow at the unfolding tragedy. “It’s hard to believe something like this could happen here,” said Antrim Township resident Lisa Hoffman. “This is a peaceful community. To see the interstate shut down with helicopters flying in and out — it’s heartbreaking.”

Authorities have confirmed that the suspect or suspects involved are either in custody or deceased, though they have not released names pending notification of families. Investigators are reviewing traffic camera footage, witness cell phone videos, and 911 call recordings to determine the exact sequence of events.

The Franklin County District Attorney’s Office released a brief statement Wednesday night urging the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is active. “We understand the fear and frustration this incident has caused,” the statement read. “Our law enforcement partners are working diligently to uncover the truth and provide answers to the victims’ families and the community.”

As the community of Antrim Township grapples with the emotional aftermath, officials say counseling and victim support services will be made available to those affected by the tragedy.

What began as an ordinary Wednesday afternoon drive for many ended in unimaginable terror — a stark reminder of how quickly violence can shatter even the most peaceful corners of Pennsylvania.