I-70 Fully Reopened After Fatal Multi-Vehicle Collision Near Eisenhower Tunnel

I-70 Reopens After Long Closure Due to Deadly Multi-Car Crash and Fire

Updated at 5:13 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025 — Interstate 70 has officially reopened following an extensive closure caused by a tragic multi-vehicle collision near the Eisenhower Tunnel. The accident, which occurred in the afternoon, resulted in a considerable fire incident around mile marker 218, prompting significant traffic disruptions and safety concerns.

Incident Overview

According to officials from the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office, the westbound lanes of I-70 remained shut for several hours, impacting numerous holiday travelers. A motorist, alongside their dog, unfortunately lost their life in this incident. While there were no reported injuries among the occupants of the semi-truck involved, the aftermath left many people stranded on the highway.

Due to the high temperatures and congestion, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) advised travelers from the Denver metropolitan area to delay their journeys. Many motorists found themselves rerouted back to Denver, with traffic being diverted at westbound I-70 near Beaver Brook.

Travel Advisory

• Closure Duration: The westbound lanes of I-70 are expected to remain closed for several hours.
• Recommended Action: Motorists are urged to postpone travel westward on I-70 or south on US 285.
• Road Conditions: Significant congestion and high temperatures are anticipated during the extended closure.

“Motorists are strongly encouraged to seek alternative routes or delay their travels at this time,” stated the Colorado State Patrol. “The current conditions will likely lead to extreme congestion and potential safety hazards.”

Traveler Experiences

The highway’s closure left many vacationers stuck in their vehicles. Some opted to wait it out, while others attempted to return to Denver. Craig Walker, who was en route to Frisco with his wife, shared, “We figured at this point we’re so close, it’s not bad to wait an hour here on the side of the highway. Plus, we have the camper, so if we really need to camp up here, we can.” Many found themselves stepping out of their vehicles to take necessary breaks, walking their dogs, or socializing to pass the time during the standstill.

Impact on Recent Traffic Events

This tragic accident marks the fourth fatality on I-70 within a short span. Just a day prior, another devastating incident involved a Subaru colliding with a semi-truck, resulting in three fatalities, including a 47-year-old woman and two children, aged 10 and 13. This recent cluster of accidents has raised concerns about road safety, particularly during busy holiday periods.

Summary of Fatalities

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.