A fiery pileup inside a tunnel on Interstate 80 in Wyoming left at least two dead with five others injured late Friday morning.
Fire and smoke billowed from the tunnel as people ran for safety.
Several outlets reported that its structural integrity had been threatened.
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The Wyoming Department of Transportation said on social media that geologists and bridge engineers with its team were “en route to assess the tunnel infrastructure.”
The crash happened around 11:37 a.m. in the westbound Green River Tunnel, which caused a fire inside the tunnel, according to the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
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The smoke and an exploding tire inside the tunnel made it difficult for first responders to access it after the crash, Wyoming Highway Patrol Tpr. Nicholas Warren said.
“My heart is broken for the families and loved ones of the victims of this terrible crash,” WYDOT Director Darin Westby said in a statement. “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.”
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Department for more information.
“We want to express our sincerest appreciation to first responders in Sweetwater County for their support and assistance in responding to this tragic crash,” Wyoming Highway Patrol Lt. Col. Karl Germain said in a statement.
“Motorists are reminded to obey posted speed limits through the detour, and delays are likely.”
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The highway remained closed in both directions Friday evening, with the eastbound lanes of the tunnel being used for first responder staging.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
