Southbound I-17 is partially back open after a fatal crash just outside Flagstaff.
One lane open SB on interstate 17 at mp299 following seven vehicle fatality crash #DPSnews pic.twitter.com/ECqGEQRMdn
— Bart Graves, PIO (@dps_pio_graves) June 19, 2016
The Department of Public Safety says seven vehicles were involved and several people were ejected in the crash near Milepost 299.
Heavy duty tow truck pulling semi strikes several vehicles causing fatality crash southbound interstate 17. #Dpsnews pic.twitter.com/qCGThSSOOB
— Bart Graves, PIO (@dps_pio_graves) June 20, 2016
Troopers say a disabled vehicle was on the left shoulder of the roadway , and traffic was stopped to move the vehicle over to the right shoulder. When traffic slowed, a heavy-duty tow truck could not stop in time and crashed into six different vehicles, according to DPS spokesman Bart Graves.
One of the vehicles hit had six people inside. It rolled several times, killing one person inside and injuring the other five. One of those hurt was admitted to the hospital with a head injury, but it was not considered life-threatening. The others were treated and released, Graves said.
Northbound lanes remained open near the crash.
DPS says to expect an extended closure, and didn’t give a time for fully reopening. Troopers said the highway would not return to normal operation for some time.
#AZTroopers open up the left lane to clear out stranded traffic. I-17 south is still closed at Exit 317 and will stay close for awhile.
— Dept. Public Safety (@Arizona_DPS) June 19, 2016
Traffic heading south from Flagstaff was first diverted onto Highway 89A, though traffic became too much, forcing authorities to turn back some vehicles.
SR 89A south from I-17 to Sedona: Road is at capacity. @Arizona_DPS sending drivers back to I-17.
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) June 20, 2016
I-17 southbound CLOSED south of Munds Park. Below are some alternate routes off of I-40. SR 89A is not an option. pic.twitter.com/Ej7Gzmq2Q0
— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) June 20, 2016
Check current traffic conditions HERE.
