In a tragic incident on Interstate 70 in the western part of the Denver metro area, a tanker truck crash resulted in a devastating fire and the loss of one life. The incident occurred just before 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, causing both directions of the interstate to be closed and leading to miles of traffic backups.

According to the Colorado State Patrol Golden, the tanker truck had overheated and was parked on the side of the interstate when another vehicle collided into the trailer from behind, igniting the fire. Unfortunately, one person lost their life in the crash, while the driver of the truck was rushed to the hospital.

Colorado Department of Transportation spokeswoman Tamara Rollison emphasized that all efforts were being made to clean up the scene, investigate the fatal crash, and reopen the interstate as soon as possible. However, due to the impact of the crash, fuel spilled through a culvert and spread across the eastbound lanes of I-70, requiring an inspection for any damage caused by the resulting fire.

Rollison urged motorists to stay away from the area and warned of significant delays due to ongoing clean-up and investigation activities. The scene was captured by CBS News Colorado's helicopter, which showed firefighters working diligently to extinguish the blaze and spraying the charred remains of the vehicle that collided with the tanker.

The Jeffco Sheriff's Office reported that the tanker was fully engulfed when emergency crews arrived at the scene, and firefighters were also seen tackling charred brush off the side of the interstate near the burning tanker. A large plume of black smoke was visible across the Denver metro area following the incident.

As a result of the crash, both directions of I-70 were closed from Exit 254 - US 40 to Genesee and US 6. The closure is expected to stretch into the afternoon, significantly impacting the evening commute. The Colorado Department of Transportation suggested drivers use alternative routes, such as the US 40 frontage road paralleling I-70 or US 6 through Clear Creek Canyon. However, extended delays were anticipated on all alternate routes.

CDOT crews actively assisted in the road closure and worked alongside other emergency responders to ensure safety and security at the scene. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities are determined to reopen the affected stretch of Interstate 70 as soon as it is deemed safe.

This devastating accident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with road travel and highlights the importance of cautious driving and maintaining vehicle safety.