UPDATE: A devastating three-vehicle crash in Fayette County has left three people dead and five others hospitalized following a horrific incident on Monday night. The collision occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Route 40 near Dark Hollow Road in Henry Clay Township.
According to state police, a tractor-trailer was traveling eastbound on Route 40 when it veered into the westbound lanes, resulting in a head-on collision with a Ford pickup truck. The impact was catastrophic, leading to a second head-on collision between the pickup truck and a Chevrolet express van.
The drivers of both the tractor-trailer and the Ford pickup, along with the front seat passenger of the van, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities are currently being withheld as authorities work to notify next of kin, as confirmed by Fayette County Coroner Bob Baker.
Emergency responders rushed five other occupants of the van, including the driver, to local hospitals for evaluation and treatment. Their conditions have not yet been disclosed, raising concerns among family and friends.
The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, with assistance from the Trooper B Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Specialists (CARS) and the Forensic Services Unit (FSU). Authorities are meticulously examining the scene to gather crucial evidence.
“A crash of this magnitude is always heart-wrenching for the community,” said Coroner Baker in a release. “We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure families are informed as soon as possible.”
This crash underscores the urgent need for road safety measures as the community grapples with this tragic loss. Residents and family members are urged to stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
As the situation develops, further details are expected to emerge, highlighting not only the circumstances of the crash but also the broader implications for traffic safety in the area. Authorities will provide additional updates as they confirm more information.
