UPDATE: A devastating multi-vehicle collision on Highway 87 in San Jose has resulted in at least two fatalities this morning, sending shockwaves through the community. The crash, involving two Teslas, a Lexus, and another vehicle that fled the scene, occurred just north of Curtner Avenue at approximately 10:50 a.m.
Emergency responders from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed the tragic deaths of an adult and a child. At least two additional individuals were rushed to the hospital, with their conditions currently unknown, as reported by ABC7 News.
The collision sparked a significant fire, obstructing northbound lanes for hours and causing traffic delays back to Capitol Expressway. The highway was finally reopened around 3:45 p.m., but commuters faced severe disruptions throughout the day.
Firefighters from the San Jose Fire Department swiftly managed the blaze, characterized by Battalion Chief Bennett Yendery as a scene with “multiple vehicles involved with fire.” Thanks to their prompt actions, the flames were contained without any further complications, despite the involvement of electric vehicles equipped with lithium batteries.
Officer Ross Lee of the CHP emphasized the complexity of such incidents in a statement to CBS News San Francisco, saying, “We respond to crashes all the time… vehicles have many different working components.” Determining the cause of the fire remains a top priority in the ongoing investigation. Officer Lee added, “Obviously, when we have vehicles that are burnt up, we will have to examine those vehicles to ensure our investigators can determine how this crash happened.”
As the community grapples with this tragic loss, the investigation is set to continue, with officials urging witnesses to come forward. This incident underscores the urgent need for road safety and awareness as families prepare for the upcoming holiday season. Stay tuned for further updates as details emerge.
