SHERMAN COUNTY, Kan. (KWCH/Gray News) – Authorities in Kansas say at least eight people have died in a massive pileup on Interstate 70.
The Kansas Highway Patrol confirmed Saturday afternoon that a large portion of I-70 between Goodland and Colby remains closed as crews continue to work the crash scene that involves more than 55 vehicles.
According to Goodland Fire Chief Brian James, the scene resulted in multiple casualties, and more than 30 patients were taken to hospitals.
“We had to think outside the box to get patients transported to hospitals in Goodland and Colby by using our fire department support vehicles to using patrol vehicles,” James said. “I’m sorry for the lives lost in this, but I’m grateful for the ones we could save.”
James added that firefighters are having to “cut deceased people out of their vehicles” while they continue rescue work on the interstate.
The Kansas Highway Patrol said family members searching for loved ones who were involved in the crash can contact troopers at 785-827-4437.
A potent storm system swept through the area over the weekend, bringing in rain and high winds. Wind gusts of up to 65 mph combined with low humidity also created critical to extreme fire weather concerns.
Additionally, violent tornadoes have been seen in parts of the U.S. as destructive winds moved east into the Mississippi Valley and Deep South on Saturday.
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