BREAKING : Traffic across several major Colorado highways was heavily disrupted following multiple serious crashes Wednesday, including a massive pileup on Interstate 70 near the Eisenhower-Johnson tunnels and a separate fire-related crash on Interstate 225 in Aurora.
Authorities confirmed that some southbound lanes of I-225 were shut down after a vehicle fire connected to a crash scene, causing significant traffic backups in the Aurora area as emergency crews responded.
Meanwhile, a major multi-vehicle collision involving more than 75 vehicles forced officials to close Interstate 70 in both directions near mile marker 216, just east of the Eisenhower-Johnson tunnels near Loveland Ski Area. Officials said snowy weather conditions persisted throughout the day, though road surfaces were reported to be mostly wet at the time of the crash.
At least eight vehicles were directly involved in the most severe portion of the pileup, leaving 19 people injured, according to preliminary reports. Emergency responders, including firefighters, state patrol troopers, and medical personnel, rushed to the scene to assist victims and manage traffic congestion.
Authorities stated eastbound I-70 could remain closed for four to six hours while crews clear wreckage and investigate the collisions. One westbound lane has reopened to limited traffic. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes as hazardous travel conditions continue.