Deadly Crash inside Tunnel Leaves Multiple Fatalities Amid Explosions and Fire

A catastrophic crash in a Wyoming tunnel on I-80 has resulted in multiple fatalities, with fire and rescue teams unable to enter the scene for hours due to ongoing explosions and intense fires. The collision, which occurred just before noon on Friday, involved several vehicles inside the Green River tunnel, leading to at least two confirmed deaths outside the tunnel, according to local authorities.

Fire and rescue teams struggled to access the tunnel for hours because of the overwhelming heat and explosions caused by a semi-truck filled with transformers. The truck caught fire, triggering small explosions that could be heard for over 30 minutes. Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jason Mower confirmed the explosions continued throughout the day, significantly hampering rescue efforts and raising concerns about the tunnel’s structural integrity.

“Additional details on injuries and fatalities will be released once available,” the Wyoming Highway Patrol stated. “The scene has been contained, and the tunnel has been evacuated.”

The incident was described as a “mass casualty event” by Memorial Hospital, which is treating some of the injured. At least seven people have been transported to the hospital, and those who were able to escape the tunnel have been accounted for. Videos posted to social media showed the chaos inside the tunnel after the crash, with people abandoning their vehicles and fleeing as the flames grew. Black smoke poured from both ends of the tunnel, further complicating rescue efforts.

David Brewer and his daughter Alyssa, who were nearby when the explosion happened, recalled the terrifying scene. “We heard and felt the huge explosions,” David said. “They went on for 30-45 minutes.” His daughter, Alyssa, described how emergency responders had to rush in on foot with hospital bags because ambulances couldn’t get through the traffic caused by the crash. “It was very, very scary,” she added.

Traffic on I-80 near Green River remains closed as authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the collision.