1 dead, several hospitalized after semi crash at Loop 375 and North Desert Boulevard
UPDATE (4:22 p.m.): ABC-7 reached out to TxDOT about Monday’s crash. It happened in the same area where other crashes involving semis and tractor trailers.
ABC-7 told TxDOT about a public call-out asking that semis no longer use Transmountain. TxDOT responded with the following message:
“The mechanical runaway truck ramp on Transmountain Road is fully operational and available for use. Portable message signs as well as additional messaging on the permanent DMS sign are currently in place, while additional permanent distance signs and beacons are installed, advising drivers of the upcoming runaway truck ramp and that the ramp is located on the left side of the roadway. Existing signage includes notifications for low gear use, the upcoming left-side ramp, and the end of the freeway. The location also has rumble strips in advance of the intersection.
While this is the first mechanical ramp system on Loop 375 (Transmountain), it is the fourth runaway ramp on the roadway. The stretch has three gravel truck runaway ramps, one westbound and two eastbound.
Other safety measures for trucks include enhanced permanent signage that provides additional warning of existing truck runaway ramps on both directions and Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) messages were developed to advise trucks to use lower gears due to the steep grades. Additional signing, across the mountain, was also installed to provide advance warning of the steep grades ahead.
We continue to further evaluate future potential enhancements.
According to TxDOT guidance, the department generally does not have the authority to prohibit the use of a state highway by a class of vehicles that are operating within applicable legal size and weight limits. TxDOT’s focus is on roadway infrastructure improvements, traffic operations, and safety enhancements designed to reduce conflicts and improve travel conditions for all motorists. Local governments may request traffic restrictions or operational changes, restrictions on state highways require review and approval through the appropriate transportation authorities.”
UPDATE (1:57 p.m.): A man died after Monday’s crash, according to EPPD Detective Judy Ovidedo.
Police didn’t share any identifying information about the man.
Detective Oviedo said the crash involved semi and five other vehicles.
The streets in the area will stay blocked off for several hours, police said. The following roads closed:
Loop 375 at North Desert and South Desert Road A Isela Rubalcava Boulevard Talbot Avenue at Spur 16UPDATE (12:14 p.m.): One person was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital after Monday’s crash. The El Paso Fire Department said four other people went to hospitals with various injuries.
EPFD said it assessed 10 people as patients. Four refused to go to the hospital.
Officials haven’t shared details about the 10th person.
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — A crash closed all lanes at the Loop 375 (Transmountain) overpass at I-10 on Monday, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
TxDOT maps said the crash happened around 10:38 a.m. All lanes in all directions are closed until further notice.
(Courtesy: TxDOT El Paso via X)
El Paso police said a semi and other vehicles crashed. Police didn’t specify how many.
The El Paso Police Department’s Special Traffic Investigators Unit responded to the crash.
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