Five Dead, Five Seriously Injured When Semi-Truck Strikes Two Vehicles

Tonopah, Arizona—A semi-truck slammed into two passenger vehicles this afternoon, killing five people and sending another five to various hospitals in serious condition.  The Arizona Department of Public Safety reports that the truck was eastbound on Interstate 10 about 50 miles west of Phoenix at 1:21 p.m. when it slammed into the rear of a Nissan Altima occupied by five people. 

According to witnesses, the car split in half, then exploded into flames.  Authorities have not released the names of the individuals, nor their relationship to one another.  Before the semi came to a stop, it struck an SUV occupied by a young mother and her four children.  All were transported to various hospitals in serious condition.  The as-yet unidentified driver of the semi was not injured.

We extend our sympathy to the families and friends of those who died in this horrific crash.  We wish swift and full recoveries for the young family that was injured.