It was one of those days in Portsmouth where it seemed like everything that could go wrong did.
From a crash that knocked out a major power structure to traffic gridlock across the city and a large fire at the Four Keys Inn, Tuesday turned into a long and chaotic day for residents, first responders, and utility crews.
Crash Takes Down Power Structure
The trouble started early Tuesday morning when a crash on U.S. 52 between Portsmouth and New Boston knocked down a major power pole.
The damaged pole — located near Portsmouth Ambulance — left a large powerline structure on the ground and forced crews from AEP to begin what appeared to be a full-day replacement project.
Motorists quickly began reporting traffic backups and detours throughout the area.
Some reports circulating online suggested the vehicle involved may have been stolen, but that has not yet been confirmed.
By the evening hours, crews were still working to repair the damaged pole, and traffic restrictions remained in place.
Traffic Gridlock Across Town
With the highway partially shut down, traffic problems quickly spread across the city.
Drivers were warned:
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U.S. 52 East past Portsmouth Ambulance was closed, forcing vehicles to turn around.
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Pleasant Avenue became heavily congested, backing up from Dorman Drive all the way over the hill to Route 139.
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Several routes were described as completely at a standstill during peak hours.
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Drivers looking to avoid the congestion were advised to detour through the Kentucky side of the river or use Rosemount Road, depending on their destination.
Major Fire at the Four Keys Inn
While traffic crews and utility workers were dealing with the crash aftermath, Portsmouth firefighters were called to a large blaze at the Four Keys Inn.
The building — which has long been familiar to police and fire crews — sustained heavy damage during the fire.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
However, the fire has raised concerns for many people who rely on the inn as one of the few places available for temporary housing.
While the property has often been criticized for conditions and police activity, some community members pointed out that many vulnerable people depend on it.
As one social media commenter wrote:
“Aside from it being a rough place, there are some unfortunate souls who have to call this home. Some are struggling with addiction, some are homeless, and some are just trying to escape terrible situations. Be thankful you’re fortunate enough not to rely on a place like that.”
The commenter also noted that children have stayed there at times, and expressed concern about residents potentially being displaced during the still-chilly spring weather.
Cause of Fire Unknown
As of Tuesday evening, no official cause for the fire had been released, and investigators had not yet announced what may have sparked the blaze.
A Long Day for Portsmouth
Between the downed power structure, widespread traffic backups, and a major fire, it was a chaotic day across Portsmouth.
Utility crews were still working to restore normal conditions, and residents were urged to use caution while traveling through affected areas.
For many in the city, Tuesday was simply one of those days where everything seemed to happen at once.