Multiple Deaths After Car Collides Head On With Tractor Trailer

UPPER MACUNGIE, P.A., (CBS) -- Authorities say at least five people died on Wednesday night when a tractor trailer collided with a car in Upper Macungie, Lehigh County.

The accident happened on Route 222 near Route 100.

Investigators say the car crossed the median into the path of the tractor trailer. Authorities say both vehicles caught fire following impact.

Officials announced on Thursday that the passengers in the car were eight coworkers. Only the driver occupied the tractor trailer and he suffered minor injuries.

Authorities identified two of the victims as Rosa Lajara-Marine, 59, Mercedes Silvestre Castillo, 34.

Officials say due to the severity of injuries, forensic testing must be conducted to positively identify the victims.

The road was shut down for about eight hours following the accident.