SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) – The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Highway Patrol are on the scene of a fatal crash near 8768 S. Tamiami Trail.

The sheriff’s office said southbound lanes of US 41 will be closed “for a prolonged period of time” while an investigation is underway.

Southbound traffic on US 41 will be rerouted at Vamo Road, to Vamo Way, back to US 41 south of the incident location.

Drivers are asked to seek alternate routes and to avoid the area until the roadway reopens.