A tragic accident involving a Dodge Ram and a semi-truck resulted in the closure of westbound I-70 near the Eisenhower Tunnel in Colorado on July 3rd. The collision, which included a significant vehicle fire, led to severe traffic disruptions, prompting authorities to advise motorists to steer clear of both I-70 and U.S. 285 west of Denver.
The accident occurred shortly after 1 p.m., causing westbound lanes to close while cleanup and investigations took place. Eastbound I-70 briefly reopened at 2:55 p.m., but the westbound lanes remained shut for several hours. The Colorado State Patrol confirmed that one individual and a dog from the Dodge Ram did not survive the crash, while the driver of the Freightliner semi-truck was reported uninjured.
Due to the closure, eastbound motorists were turned around at Beaver Brook, and there were further restrictions for vehicles traveling west from U.S. 6 in Golden. The ensuing traffic jam along U.S. 285 was particularly heavy, causing concern over high temperatures on the road surface for those stuck waiting.
Traffic flow in the area continues to be affected, and authorities are encouraging drivers to take alternate routes to ensure safety. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of road travel, especially during peak times, and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.
In light of the unfortunate circumstances, our thoughts are with those affected by this incident. This also highlights the need for vigilance when driving, particularly during busy holiday periods.