AUSTIN, Texas — 5 people are dead after a multi-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck late Thursday night in North Austin, according to the Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS).
Crews initially responded to a call about a traffic incident around 11:23 p.m. around the 3100 block of Interstate 35 heading southbound near Parmer Lane, according to Officer Austin Zarling with the Austin Police Department (APD).
Once on scene, responders said the crash was severe, with three people rescued by the Austin Fire Department (AFD) after they were reportedly trapped inside vehicles.
Three adults, one child and a baby all died on scene, ATCEMS said Friday morning.
11 total people were reportedly taken to hospitals, two of which were transported to St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center for serious injuries. Two other adults were taken to Dell Seton with severe injuries, with one more transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
Three other children were also transported to Dell Children’s Hospital: one with possibly life-threatening injuries and two others with minor injuries. Three adults were also taken to Seton Medical Center with minor injuries, ATCEMS said.
In total, ATCEMS said 17 people and 17 vehicles were involved in the collision. All patients in critical condition were removed from the scene in about 40 minutes, ATCEMS Captain Christa Stedman said on Friday morning.
Diesel fuel also reportedly spilled out of the 18-wheeler semi-truck, but crews said it has since been contained.
Drivers are asked to avoid I-35 until further notice. However, the I-35 frontage road lanes are now reopened, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
An investigation is currently underway, as multiple crews including APD, ATCEMS and AFD responded to the scene.
No arrests or charges have been made at this time.
This is a developing story. Check back for details.