Three people were killed in a multi-vehicle crash that shut down all westbound lanes of Interstate 80 near a far southwest Chicago suburb Monday afternoon, authorities said.
The crash happened on the interstate near mile post 93 and involved three semi-trailers, a tire hauling truck, a straight truck and a passenger vehicle.
Two of the people killed were in the passenger car and the third was in one of the semi-trucks, according to Illinois State Police.
Two of the vehicles caught fire in the crash, according to the Ottawa Fire Department, and several ambulances were called to the scene.
Authorities also said one of those transported to an area hospital is believed to be a firefighter who suffered a minor injury.
Traffic was being rerouted off the interstate and commuters were encouraged to avoid the area in both directions if possible. Lanes were expected to be closed for about four hours as crews worked to clear the scene.
The cause of the crash remained under investigation Monday.
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