A chain-reaction crash involving more than 75 vehicles closed eastbound I-70 near the Eisenhower Tunnel Tuesday afternoon, Colorado State Patrol officials said. Heavy snow, strong winds and sudden whiteout conditions around Loveland Pass caused vehicles to slide on slick pavement and collide in a multi-block pileup that began about 2:50 p.m.
Witnesses described semis jackknifing and multiple impacts occurring “like a pinball” as drivers braked and lost traction. Several people said the sequence unfolded “in slow motion,” with brakes that wouldn’t hold, vehicles spinning and a rapid succession of rear-end and side collisions that compounded the scene.
Emergency responders from Clear Creek EMS, nearby sheriff’s offices, fire departments and other EMS units responded. Authorities told many people to remain in their vehicles if they were intact and occupants were comfortable; others were assisted out of cars and guided on foot toward tunnel entrances and shelter areas. Television and bystander video show EMTs checking people at the scene and evacuating some toward the tunnel portals.
Colorado State Patrol estimated more than 75 vehicles were involved. Law enforcement reported at least 19 people injured and said there were no fatalities. Because the crash area was large and conditions remained poor, officials continued to assess the full extent of injuries and damage through the afternoon.
Traffic was heavily affected in both eastbound and westbound directions as responders triaged, cleared debris and worked to reopen lanes. Witnesses praised the professionalism of patrol and EMS personnel. Authorities urged motorists to avoid travel in the area while snow squalls and high winds persisted and to use extreme caution on mountain passes during winter-like storms.
Some footage filmed at the scene has no sound. Date published: April 14, 2026.
