Silverthorne, CO – A tragic early morning crash involving a semi-truck on Interstate 70 westbound near Silverthorne left two adults and a child dead and closed the highway for nearly 12 hours on Sunday, according to the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).
Fiery Crash Blocks All Lanes on I-70
The incident occurred around 5:45 a.m. near milepost 208, when a Freightliner Cascadia hauling a trailer full of dog food reportedly lost control on a downhill straightaway. Authorities say the truck veered off the right side of the road before striking a barrier, rolling across lanes, and catching fire.
The semi came to rest blocking all westbound lanes, forcing traffic to a standstill for hours. Photos released by CSP show the trailer engulfed in flames and large amounts of dog food spilled across the highway.
“The extensive damage and fire made it difficult to determine how many people were inside the truck,” CSP noted in their initial statement.
Victims Identified in Sunday Night Update
By Sunday evening, CSP confirmed that three individuals were killed in the crash — all pronounced dead at the scene.
- Driver: A 37-year-old woman from Deming, New Mexico
- Passenger: A 39-year-old man from Deming, New Mexico
- Child: A 9-year-old girl from Jacksonville, Florida
Authorities said the Summit County Coroner’s Office will release the names of the victims once next of kin are notified.
Investigation Continues Into Cause of the Crash
CSP investigators are still working to determine what caused the semi-truck to veer off the road. The downhill stretch where the accident occurred is known for being challenging, particularly for heavily loaded trucks descending from the Eisenhower Tunnel.
Officials have requested that anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information contact CSP Dispatch at (970) 249-4392, referencing case number VC250372.
Highway Reopens After 12-Hour Closure
There was initially no estimated time for reopening the highway as emergency crews battled the blaze, cleared debris, and began their investigation. By 6 p.m., the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced that all lanes of I-70 westbound had reopened.
According to CDOT, the Eisenhower Tunnel, located just east of the crash site, saw over 548,000 vehicles traveling westbound in September, averaging 37,000 vehicles daily in both directions — a stark reminder of how heavily trafficked this mountain corridor remains.
Road Safety Concerns on Mountain Passes
The tragedy highlights ongoing safety concerns for commercial drivers navigating steep, high-altitude corridors like I-70. Weather conditions, brake overheating, and sharp curves can combine to make mountain descents treacherous, particularly for long-haul semis.
Authorities frequently urge drivers to use designated truck ramps, inspect brakes, and reduce speed through steep grades. Similar accidents in past years have prompted calls for stricter safety measures and improved signage in the area.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Awareness
Local residents and travelers expressed grief over the loss, emphasizing the importance of caution through the mountain passes. Several online discussions among drivers have also brought renewed attention to the need for safer truck routes and driver training for high-altitude terrain.
As investigators continue their work, CSP and CDOT remind motorists to remain alert, reduce speed in steep zones, and avoid distractions, especially along Colorado’s high-risk corridors.
What are your thoughts on highway safety through Colorado’s mountain passes? Share your opinions in the comments below.
