Major Crash Investigation Shuts Down Lincoln Tunnel Helix, Snarls Morning Commute

NEW YORK, Aug. 28, 2025 - A serious motor-vehicle collision early Thursday morning prompted authorities to close the westbound Lincoln Tunnel Helix and restrict inbound traffic to a single lane, creating widespread gridlock for commuters entering New York City.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reported that at approximately 1:30 a.m., a crash occurred on the Route 495 Helix leading to the Lincoln Tunnel, triggering an extensive crash investigation that forced the closure of all New Jersey-bound lanes. Officials immediately diverted westbound traffic through the Hoboken Tunnel as an emergency detour, while eastbound lanes also underwent partial closure for evidence gathering and inspection.

By 8 a.m., two of the three eastbound lanes remained closed just west of Boulevard East in Weehawken, causing delays of up to 30 minutes for NJ Transit bus services traveling into the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The agency alerted riders that bus tickets and passes would be honored on rail services amid the disruption.

For inbound drivers, the situation was even more acute. Only one westbound lane was open on the Helix, leading to bumper-to-bumper traffic stretching back to the New Jersey Turnpike and Route 3. SkyFOX aerial footage showed vehicles creeping at a crawl as frustrated motorists vented on social media about hours-long waits.

“495 westbound Helix is closed for a crash investigation. All traffic diverted through Hoboken Tunnel. Two lanes closed 495 eastbound Helix for investigation,” the Port Authority posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Motorists are urged to seek alternative routes, including the Holland Tunnel or the George Washington Bridge, to avoid the backup. No fatalities have been reported, and the investigation remains active as authorities work to clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow.