SPEARFISH, S.D. – A portion of I-90 was shut down in both directions yesterday morning when a galvanized pipe fell across the interstate from under the Exit 14 bridge, blocking all four lanes of travel. Traffic started to back up and came to a standstill.
Preliminary crash information indicates the driver of a Pontiac Bonneville pulled to the shoulder under the bridge because of traffic and the blockage. A Toyota Highlander, a Chevrolet Express, and a Freightliner truck were all traveling west and began to slow down for the stopped traffic and road hazard. The Freightliner was unable to stop in time and became jack-knifed. It slid into the back of the Chevrolet Express which hit the back of the Toyota Highlander, which then struck the rear of the Pontiac Bonneville. The rear of the Tesla was also struck. Traffic was diverted via the on and off ramps while the pipe was removed the vehicles recovered.
The driver of the Toyota Highlander suffered serious non-life-threatening injuries. No injuries were incurred with the other drivers.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.
