Milwaukee

At Least 2 Dead After Semi-Truck Explodes, Shuts Down Interstate 41/94 in Southeastern Wisconsin

Footage from the scene showed major backups in both directions

At least two people are dead after a semi-truck reportedly exploded in southeastern Wisconsin, shutting down Interstate 41/94 in Racine County.

The Racine County Medical Examiner's office confirmed it was called to the fiery crash scene and there are at least two fatalities and the office was at the crash scene. 

According to the Racine County Sheriff's Department, the drivers of two semi-trailers involved in the five-vehicle crash are both deceased. The drivers of two other cars are currently in area hospitals, and one other driver walked away from the crash with no serious injuries. 

The freeway was closed northbound at WIS 20 and southbound at Ryan Road, according to NBC affiliate station TMJ4, which said the explosion happened near County K. The northbound side of the freeway will remain closed through the overnight hours as crews repair pavement damage caused by the intense fires that raged after the crash.  

Investigators say that the scene remains "unstable" due to the incident.  

Footage from the scene showed major backups in both directions as smoke billowed from the semi. Commuters were being urged to take alternate routes. 

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