'Terrible crash': Two dead in Wyoming highway tunnel pileup
A massive pileup in an Interstate 80 tunnel in Wyoming killed at least two people and shuttered part of the major east-west highway, authorities said Friday.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation said the "multi-vehicle crash" on westbound I-80 occurred at 11:37 a.m. local time. Photos posted by Wyoming Highway Patrol showed a massive plume of black smoke coming out of a tunnel entrance.
Highway patrol said the two confirmed fatalities were outside of the tunnel. The agency confirmed a fire was active at the scene, and vehicle tires were “exploding” from the heat.
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon said he is monitoring the crash and that state resources have been deployed to support local recovery efforts.
“I am praying for all concerned and their families," Gordon said. "I have directed the appropriate agencies to work with the local communities to offer aid and assistance to the injured, to those who have suffered loss, and in support of efforts to resolve ongoing concerns."
The transportation department said the 1,100-foot tunnel was evacuated and the crash site has been contained. Part of I-80 – which runs from California to New Jersey – is closed until further notice. WYDOT geologists and bridge engineers were on their way to the scene to assess the tunnel.
“My heart is broken for the families and loved ones of the victims of this terrible crash,” said transportation department director Darin Westby. “My thoughts and prayers go out to all who are involved. WYDOT and WHP remain on scene to assist local emergency responders and provide additional support and traffic control.”
Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County said it was treating victims of the "mass casualty incident" and urged people to refrain from visiting the hospital unless they were an immediate family member or had an emergency. By late afternoon, the hospital said it had returned to normal operations.
"We appreciate the support and understanding of our community during this challenging time," Memorial Hospital wrote in a social media post. "Updates will be provided as more information becomes available."