In a devastating turn of events, a landslide at Teton Pass in Wyoming has resulted in the collapse and crumble of the roadway, marking a catastrophic failure, as described by the state's department of transportation.

The incident began on Thursday when a large crack appeared across both lanes of the highway, causing significant concern for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Measuring approximately 8 inches in some areas, the drop in the crack created unsafe driving conditions, prompting the agency to patch it and resume traffic temporarily.

However, on Friday morning, a mudslide just a few miles away forced the road to be closed once again. Although crews attempted to construct a detour around the damage, their efforts were in vain as the landslide continued to move, eventually causing the entire road to collapse.

Thankfully, no crew members were harmed, and no equipment was damaged during these unfortunate events, as confirmed by the transportation department. The focus now lies on determining how long it will take to reopen the road and establish a long-term solution for rebuilding the damaged roadway, according to Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon.

The closure of the Teton Pass Highway has not gone unnoticed, with the U.S. Department of Transportation highlighting its critical significance as a connection for commuters and recreationists traveling from Victor, Idaho, to Jackson, Wyoming. The highway is also in close proximity to the popular Grand Teton National Park.

Governor Mark Gordon expressed his gratitude towards the Wyoming Department of Transportation staff for prioritizing public safety during this evolving situation. He went on to acknowledge the impact that the closure has had on the residents of Teton County, regional commuters, and the local economy.

As the state works towards a resolution and a comprehensive plan for the road's reconstruction, the immediate priority remains the safety and well-being of the public.