As of 9:54 AM, Indiana State Police were diverting southbound I-69 traffic onto State Road 5 at the 278 mile marker because of numerous crashes, which prompted officials to close the southbound lanes of I-69 between the 273 and 264 mile markers.  Motorists are urged to exercise patience and caution if they are already stuck in traffic and for those looking to travel, to seek an alternate route.