EVANSTON, Wyo. (KUTV) — Two people were killed and another 22 people were injured following a massive multi-vehicle crash on I-80 near Evanston on Wednesday.
The crash happened around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18. Wyoming Highway Patrol said the crashes happened simultaneously at mile marker 18, just east of Evanston.
A smaller crash happened in the eastbound lanes, involving several semi-trucks and passenger vehicles. A larger crash in the westbound lanes involved 20 semi-trucks and 12 passenger vehicles.
Wyoming Highway Patrol confirmed two people were killed as a result of the two crashes. Another 22 people were injured and three were airlifted to Utah medical centers. The 22 who were injured, according to Wyoming Highway Patrol, were taking to an Evanston area hospital.
Injuries ranged from broken legs and ribs to neck injuries and severe bruising.
“Our troopers and other first responders worked relentlessly through the night to save lives, clear the road and ensure the safety of the traveling public,” Wyoming Highway Patrol said in a statement.
An investigation into the crash is still ongoing; however, based on preliminary information, detectives believe drivers going too fast for the weather and road conditions may have been a factor behind the crash.
Wyoming Highway Patrol added, “This frightening and tragic incident serves as another reminder that Wyoming winters can see sudden, drastic changes in weather. Please be prepared if you are traveling across Wyoming, and drive safely, slowing down to appropriate speeds for the conditions.”