Wednesday, January 7, 2015

1 DEAD, 2 INJURED IN SEMI CRASH ON I-94 IN EAU CLAIRE, WISCONSIN



1 DEAD, 2 INJURED IN SEMI CRASH ON I-94 IN EAU CLAIRE, WISCONSIN




The accident happened about 3 a.m. Wednesday on I-94 between Eau Claire and Osseo. The crash closed both westbound lanes of the interstate at Foster, and a major reroute had been redirecting traffic for several hours. The highway reopened around 12:30 p.m.

The Wisconsin State Patrol says preliminary investigation suggests a westbound semi unit traveling in the right lane had slowed down due to mechanical problems near Mile Marker 75. A second semi unit traveling in the same lane rear ended the slowing semi, killing the driver of that truck. A third semi unit traveling in the same lane clipped the rear of the second semi and jack-knifed into the median. 

The drivers of the first and third semi units were transported to Mayo Health System in Eau Claire. Their names have not been released pending notification of family.
There is no word on what caused the accident, or the extent of the injuries.

WEAU reports a medical helicopter was called in. There is also a warming bus on scene, to help keep emergency workers safe as first responders are working in wind chill temperatures of 29 below.