GREEN RIVER — A tragic multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 80 near Green River claimed two lives on Friday. The accident, which took place in the tunnel between Exit 90 and Exit 91, involved several commercial and passenger vehicles and resulted in a fire breaking out inside the structure.
Stephanie Harsha, the District 3 public relations specialist for the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), confirmed the fatalities, noting that the investigation is ongoing. First responders were evacuated from the westbound tunnel due to concerns about crumbling concrete.
“There are no drivers inside the tunnel now,” Harsha stated. “It's just emergency personnel.”
On-site, WYDOT structural engineers and geologists were dispatched to assess the situation, and Harsha indicated that evaluations of the tunnel's infrastructure would continue into the morning hours. “By morning, WYDOT should have definitive information on the condition of the tunnel,” she added.
The accident occurred at 11:37 a.m. at mile marker 90.2 on westbound I-80, prompting WYDOT to urge motorists to avoid the area temporarily.
WYDOT Director Darin Westby expressed his sorrow for the victims' families, stating, “My heart is broken for the families and loved ones of the victims of this terrible crash. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who are involved.” Both WYDOT and the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) remained at the scene to support local emergency services and manage traffic.
The eastbound lanes are being used for first responders, and traffic is being redirected; westbound vehicles are being diverted at mile marker 91, while eastbound traffic is rerouted at mile marker 89 through Green River. WHP Lt. Col. Karl Germain emphasized the importance of adhering to speed limits in the detour areas and warned of possible delays.
Further information will be released as it becomes available. In an update, the Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County announced that it has returned to normal operations following the incident, thanking the community for its support and urging patience for families and patients at this time.
Governor Mark Gordon is collaborating with state agencies to monitor the aftermath of the crash. He expressed his condolences and pledged state support to those affected. “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,” he said.
Community members and drivers are encouraged to utilize the Wyoming 511 traffic information app for real-time updates.