I-80 near Richmond was backed up due to police activity on April 2, 2023.
Caltrans via screenshotA massive traffic jam unfolded in the East Bay Sunday as both east and westbound I-80 closed in Richmond due to police activity. As of 2 p.m., about two hours after the incident began, CHP announced all lanes are reopening.
"As of 1:42 PM, CHP reports that there is a severe traffic alert and police department activity on westbound I-80 at Central Ave in Richmond," 511 posted on its critical traffic alerts. "...Motorists are advised to expect delays and to use alternate routes to avoid the area. There is no estimated time to reopen the roadway."
The incident began shortly after noon Sunday. It is not clear what kind of police activity shut the roadway, but CBS News reported Contra Costa County sheriff's deputies pursued a suspect onto I-80 where the individual reportedly holed up inside their vehicle. A brief standoff reportedly resulted in all lanes closing.
As a result of the incident and residual delays, traffic backed up onto city streets and 580 as drivers attempted to avoid the highway.
This breaking news story has been updated.