PHOENIX, AZ – A catastrophic accident on Interstate 10, just west of Phoenix, claimed the lives of six individuals and injured several others on Tuesday afternoon. The tragic incident, which involved multiple vehicles, including several tractor-trailers, resulted in a fire that engulfed parts of the highway.
The chaos prompted the closure of all lanes in both directions, as emergency services rushed to the scene to manage the blaze and provide aid to the injured. By late evening, westbound lanes were reopened, while eastbound lanes remained closed as authorities continued their investigation and cleanup operations.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary findings suggest a chain-reaction collision, with the involvement of large commercial trucks playing a significant role in the severity of the incident. The ensuing fire added further complexity to the rescue efforts.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of devastation, with smoke rising from the wreckage and debris scattered across the highway. Several drivers stopped to assist those involved in the crash, highlighting the community’s spirit of solidarity in the face of disaster.
Authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution and patience as they navigate the area. Traffic delays are expected to persist until the eastbound lanes are fully cleared and reopened. Officials are also appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to aid in the investigation.
The names of the deceased have not yet been released, as authorities work to notify their families. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, with some reported to be in critical condition. As the investigation proceeds, efforts are focused on understanding the factors that led to this tragic event and finding ways to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Local officials have expressed their condolences to the families affected by the crash, emphasizing the importance of stringent safety measures on highways. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers on the road and the need for vigilance among drivers.
As the community mourns the loss, support services are being offered to help those impacted cope with the emotional aftermath. Counseling and support groups are being made available to assist individuals in dealing with the trauma of the accident.