Watch CBS News

I-70 Reopens After Deadly Crash And Multi-Car Pileup In Windy Conditions Friday

(CBS4) - Interstate 70 has reopened in eastern Colorado, after a deadly crash and a multi-car pileup during high winds. I-70 was closed at midday on Friday between Peoria and the Kansas border.

Highway 40, Highway 285 and Highway 287 were also closed in the region. A major dust storm hit the Eastern Plains, with gusty north winds in excess of 60 mph.

Highway 40 closed dust storm
(credit: Cheyenne County Sheriff)

In some areas, drivers were also dealing with blowing snow.

blowing snow highway 285 cdot
US 285 was closed from Antero Junction to west of Grant because of blowing snow. (credit: Colorado Department of Transporation)

The deadly crash happened on I-70 north of Hugo at 10:40 a.m.

There was a separate pileup -- that injured at least 15 people. The Colorado State Patrol couldn't say exactly how many vehicles were involved, but said there were semi trucks and passenger cars.

Investigators said the crash happened during poor visibility conditions, but said they couldn't confirm the cause yet.

It's not clear if the pileup was a result of the fatal crash. The CSP did not provide any information about the deceased.

Some vehicles were still on the shoulders near mile post 382 at 4:30 p.m., but the highway was open.

RELATED: Red Flag Warning In Effect Friday Mainly East Of Denver Area

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.