Authorities in Green River, Wyoming, confirmed that a third victim was discovered in the aftermath of a devastating crash that occurred inside a highway tunnel on Interstate 80. The incident involved a total of 26 cars and trucks, resulting in at least five serious injuries. The crash, which occurred near Green River, sparked a fire within the tunnel, leading to the complete destruction of six commercial vehicles and two passenger vehicles.
As of Sunday, most of the wreckage had been cleared, with only a few vehicles remaining inside the tunnel. However, the progress of federal and state investigators was hindered by snowfall as they meticulously examined each vehicle to piece together the sequence of events and determine the cause of the crash.
Sgt. Jason Roascio of the Wyoming Highway Patrol expressed hope that the discovery of the third victim would be the final fatality in this tragic incident. Details regarding the identities of the victims have not yet been disclosed.
Photographs released on Sunday depicted the charred remnants of two vehicles within the tunnel, highlighting the intensity of the fire that ensued after the crash. The accident occurred in the westbound tube of the twin tunnel beneath Castle Rock, a prominent sandstone formation overlooking Green River.
The closure of the interstate, a crucial east-west route through Wyoming, forced traffic to be diverted through Green River. The eastbound tunnel is anticipated to reopen on Wednesday, temporarily accommodating traffic in both directions. Engineers are unable to provide an estimated timeline for the reopening of the westbound tunnel as investigations and cleanup efforts continue.
