Northwest Houston has been experiencing significant traffic delays on Interstate 45 near Cypresswood since approximately 1:30 PM this afternoon due to an ongoing armed standoff.
The Incident
According to KPRC reports, the situation began when a crash occurred on the southbound lanes of I-45. Following the crash, a woman stepped out of her vehicle, retrieved a lawn chair, and placed it in the middle of the southbound lanes. She then armed herself with a gun, prompting an immediate law enforcement response.
Since then, numerous law enforcement officers have been trying to negotiate with the woman, but as of the latest reports, the standoff has been ongoing for about three hours.
Family Attempt to Intervene
At one point during the standoff, a family member reportedly tried to speak with the woman in an attempt to de-escalate the situation. However, after around 5-10 minutes of conversation, the family member left the scene, and the standoff continued.
Traffic Backups
As a result of the standoff, traffic on both sides of I-45 has come to a standstill, causing significant delays. Commuters in the area are advised to seek alternate routes to avoid the gridlock.
Ongoing Situation
Law enforcement continues to work on resolving the situation peacefully, but there is no word yet on when the standoff will end or when traffic will be cleared. Drivers are urged to stay informed and be patient as the authorities work to manage the situation.
If you’re planning to travel in the area, it’s best to check traffic updates for the latest information.