CLEAR CREEK COUNTY, Colo. — I-70 has reopened near the Eisenhower Tunnel following a significant 70-vehicle pileup that injured 19 people on Tuesday, according to Colorado State Patrol (CSP).
The crash occurred in the eastbound lanes at approximately 2:50 p.m. Eight individuals were hospitalized, one with serious injuries. No fatalities have been reported.
CSP initially estimated that the eastbound lanes would remain closed for four to six hours. However, the right lane in the westbound direction remained open but slow, while the left lane was closed for medical staging.
Both westbound lanes were cleared around 8 p.m. after being closed for several hours. Earlier reports indicated five minor crashes occurred on I-70 west of mile marker 221 beginning at 11:10 a.m. due to snowy conditions.
The incident is under ongoing investigation. Colorado's chain law is currently in effect until May 31, requiring commercial vehicles to carry chains and all vehicles to have adequate tires.