IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Dozens of Vehicles Collide in Deadly, Fiery Pile-Up on Snowy Wyoming Highway

Alex Dragaytsev, 45, from Longueuil, Quebec, Canada, has charged with aggravated vehicular homicide.
Interstate 80 is closed due to a major vehicle pileup approximately 18 miles west of Laramie at mile post 292 on April 20.
Interstate 80 is closed due to a major vehicle pileup approximately 18 miles west of Laramie at mile post 292 on April 20.
/ Source: NBC News

A thick column of black smoke rises from a deadly pile-up of involving five dozen vehicles on Interstate 80 in Wyoming on Monday.

According to the Wyoming Highway Patrol, two vehicles crashed causing one to jackknife — which set off a chain reaction of crashes that took out some sixty cars and trucks and left one person dead.

Alex Dragaytsev, 45, from Longueuil, Quebec, Canada, was arrested and charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, according to the WHP. He was taken to the Albany County Detention Center in Laramie, Wyo.

In a release, the patrol said "59 vehicles have been confirmed to be involved in this morning's crash with the potential of another four to six more."

Dense fog and slushy conditions may have been contributing factors in the crash, according to authorities, who confirmed multiple injuries and at least one fatality. At least 30 other people were taken to area hospitals.

A 22,000 gallon tanker truck transporting hazardous material was set on fire in the crash, officials said, causing a giant plume of dark smoke. The patrol said officials did not believe that any hazardous materials were released.

Interstate 80 is closed due to a major vehicle pileup approximately 18 miles west of Laramie at mile post 292.
Interstate 80 is closed due to a major vehicle pileup approximately 18 miles west of Laramie at mile post 292.Wyoming Highway Patrol