On February 14, there was a car accident inside the Green River Tunnel, resulting in three deaths and at least five people with significant injuries. The accident involved fire and a series of explosions. The crash involved 10 passenger vehicles, and 16 commercial vehicles
The accident is thought to be caused by a semi-truck carrying transformers that had its oil caught on fire, but officials are still unsure. Sweetwater County is still receiving dash-cam footage submitted to the police department, and reviewing it. Sergeant of the Wyoming Highway Patrol Department, Jason Roascio, said “In Wyoming, we have had multiple vehicle pile-ups. What makes this accident unique is it occurred inside of a tunnel and there was a fire.” The extreme temperature, caused by the fire, caused tires to pop on vehicles still inside the tunnel.
Because of the nature of the accident, the investigation is ongoing. Roascio said, “We are now done with on-scene evidence collection, but we are not done with the investigation. We have to analyze all the evidence, and interviews from people in the crash are still happening. This will be a very complicated and time-consuming investigation.”
In terms of the aftermath of the accident, the WYDOT Website said, “WYDOT engineers are confident in the structural integrity of the eastbound tunnel and its ability to carry traffic again once the westbound crash scene is cleared. The area is geologically sound, with no risk of catastrophic collapse in either tunnel. There is damage to the 1 ft 3 inch reinforced concrete liner and electrical lighting system within the tunnel.” As of Feb. 20, the tunnel is open to traffic, with expected delays. Over 5,000 feet of concrete barrier and traffic control signs have been added to the tunnel for additional safety measures. The speed limit was also significantly reduced. Additional work on the tunnel is still happening.
Sergeant Roascio would like to emphasize to be extremely careful driving on Wyoming roads in the winter. “When it comes to road conditions, whether it be ice, snow, or rain, increase your following distance, decrease your speed, scan the roadway for hazards, and never outdrive your own ability. Additionally, always wear your seatbelt over the entire duration of your trip. At the end of the day, what is the trip worth to you,” said Rroascio.
First Responders could not enter the scene until hours after the accident occurred, because of fires and concerns about the structural integrity of the tunnels. The Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County has treated 18 injuries as a result of the accident. Roascio said, “We, at highway patrol, want to thank the Fire Department, EMTs, Law Enforcement, and the hospital. We all had to work very well together. We also appreciate the outstanding support from the community for the first responders. Everyone really appreciates that.”
After the severity of the Green River Tunnel Crash, which resulted in the death of 3 people, and many additional injuries to others, Law Enforcement urges drivers to be as safe as possible when traveling. The Green River Tunnel is now open for traffic, but is still not fully restored to its previous conditions.
