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

ANTRIM TOWNSHIP, PA (Franklin County) — A chaotic and tragic scene unfolded late Wednesday afternoon in Antrim Township after a multiple-victim shooting brought Interstate 81 to a complete standstill as emergency crews rushed to respond. Authorities temporarily shut down the major highway to allow multiple medical helicopters to land and airlift victims to area trauma centers, turning one of Pennsylvania’s busiest interstates into the site of a full-scale emergency operation.

According to preliminary reports from the Pennsylvania State Police, the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. in the southbound lanes of Interstate 81 near Exit 3, close to the Maryland state line. Troopers were dispatched following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire along the interstate and several individuals possibly injured. When law enforcement arrived, they encountered a chaotic and grim scene — multiple vehicles stopped along the roadway, shell casings scattered across the asphalt, and victims suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.

Emergency responders from several counties rushed to assist, including Franklin County EMS, Mercersburg Volunteer Fire Company, and Life Lion and STAT MedEvac air units. The severity of the injuries and the sprawling nature of the crime scene forced authorities to close both directions of I-81 to allow helicopters to safely land on the interstate. Motorists were diverted for several miles as rescue operations unfolded.

At least several people were shot, and while officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of victims or fatalities, multiple law enforcement sources have described the event as “severe and tragic.”

Eyewitnesses recalled moments of terror and confusion as shots rang out during evening traffic. “I heard what sounded like popping noises and saw cars suddenly swerving,” said one driver who was traveling southbound at the time. “People were running, ducking behind their cars — it was total chaos. I didn’t know what was happening until I saw someone on the ground.”

The Pennsylvania State Police Chambersburg barracks quickly established command over the scene, assisted by Maryland State Police and local law enforcement due to the proximity of the state border. Officials are investigating whether the shooting stemmed from a targeted attack or road rage incident, though early indications suggest the violence may not have been random.

By early evening, investigators had cordoned off a large section of the highway as a crime scene, using drones and forensic mapping equipment to document evidence. Bullet-riddled vehicles were towed from the area, and detectives interviewed witnesses and survivors as traffic backed up for miles in both directions.

Lt. Christopher Keenan of the Pennsylvania State Police addressed reporters later in the evening, calling the incident “a horrific and senseless act of violence.” He commended the rapid response of law enforcement and emergency medical teams, noting that “the coordinated effort between multiple agencies undoubtedly saved lives.”

Residents in nearby communities such as Greencastle and Waynesboro expressed shock as news of the shooting spread. “It’s terrifying,” said local resident Kelly Dawson. “You don’t expect to hear something like this happening on a weekday afternoon — not here. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families.”

Officials reopened the highway hours later after extensive cleanup and evidence collection, but the emotional toll on those who witnessed the violence will linger far longer.

The Franklin County District Attorney’s Office released a brief statement urging the public to remain patient as the investigation continues, stating, “This is an active and ongoing situation. Our goal is to ensure justice for the victims and safety for everyone in our community.”

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to determine the motive and circumstances that led to the violent attack. For now, Antrim Township — a peaceful community known for its rural charm — is left in shock, mourning yet another reminder of how quickly violence can erupt in even the most ordinary of moments.