GREEN RIVER, Wyo. — A fatal multi-vehicle crash inside the Green River Tunnel in Wyoming has led to what is being described as a "mass casualty event" on Interstate 80 on Friday.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol shared photos of the fatal incident in which thick black smoke can be seen coming from inside the tunnel on the highway's westbound lanes near the town of Green River.
Troopers responded to the scene just after 11:30 a.m. and said there were currently two confirmed fatalities from outside the tunnel, adding that the heat of the accident was causing vehicle tires to explode. As of 4 p.m., a fire was still burning inside the tunnel.
Two fatalities so far have been confirmed as investigations continue. The scene has since been contained and the tunnel evacuated.
Video shows smoke coming from Green River Tunnel (Courtesy: Michael Gabbard):
Both directions of the highway are closed to all traffic at the tunnel for an undisclosed amount of time.
According to Jason Mower with the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office, most of the people involved in the initial incident were able to leave the tunnel before the fire got out of control.
In a social media post, Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County said it was providing care to those who were affected, and asked anyone not involved in the incident to stay clear of the hospital.
Explosions were reported during the fire, and investigators believe that the truck was carrying electrical transformers at the time. Several subsequent explosions reported after are believed to have been caused by tires under pressure from the heat.
Several people were transported to the hospital, the condition of those transported are not confirmed at this time.
Due to falling concrete debris from the tunnel and the tire explosions, investigators will have to wait for engineers and geologists to inspect the scene before they can begin the rescue and recovery work.
“My heart is broken for the families and loved ones of the victims of this terrible crash,” said WYDOT 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.”
The eastbound lanes of the tunnel are currently being used for first responder staging. Traffic is being rerouted around the crash; westbound traffic is being diverted at mile marker 91 and eastbound at mile marker 89 through Green River.
“We want to express our sincerest appreciation to first responders in Sweetwater County for their support and assistance in responding to this tragic crash,” said WHP Lt. Col. Karl Germain. “Motorists are reminded to obey posted speed limits through the detour, and delays are likely.”
WYDOT Geologists and Bridge Engineers are en route to assess the tunnel infrastructure. More details will be announced as they become available.
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