2 killed in Wyoming tunnel crash

GREEN RIVER, Wyoming (KSL.com) — Emergency crews were called to a fatal crash that shut down a tunnel road in Wyoming on Friday.

Just after 11:30 a.m., Wyoming troopers responded to a multi-vehicle crash on westbound I-80 inside the tunnels next to the city of Green River. Officials confirmed two people were killed but did not expound further on the incident.

Black smoke could be seen exiting the tunnels while cars were lined up outside. Both directions of the tunnel are shut down as officials responded to the scene. There is no estimated time of reopening as of 5 p.m.

“The Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office is urging all travelers to avoid the I-80 tunnels near Green River due to a multi-vehicle pileup, active fire and explosion threat,” the sheriff’s office posted on social media.

The Wyoming Department of Transportation said westbound I-80 is closed from Rawlins to Rock Springs. Traffic is being diverted through the city of Green River.

The Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County asked the public to refrain from visiting the hospital unless for an emergency due to the “mass-casualty incident” in the tunnels.

“Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County is currently working to provide immediate care to those affected. As a community please be advised that we are working to provide care and take care of those that are involved,” the hospital said on social media.

Further information on road closures in Wyoming is available on the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s website.

“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 Wyoming Highway Patrol Lt. Col. Karl Germain. “Motorists are reminded to obey posted speed limits through the detour, and delays are likely.”

As of 5 p.m., the tunnel has been evacuated, and transportation geologists and engineers are en route to assess the tunnel infrastructure.

“I am praying for all concerned and their families. 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,” Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon said. “I am immensely grateful to the emergency responders who acted so quickly and without concern for their own personal safety to reach those in peril. We will offer any and all assistance we can to the fullest extent of my powers. Safety for the community and for those directly affected is our top priority.”

EastIdahoNews.com comment boards are a place for open, honest, and civil communication between readers regarding the news of the day and issues facing our communities. We encourage commenters to stay on topic, use positive and constructive language, and be empathetic to the feelings of other commenters. THINK BEFORE YOU POST. Click here for more details on our commenting rules.