Tragic 17-Vehicle Crash in Texas Leaves Five Dead 

A devastating multi-vehicle crash involving 17 vehicles and a semi-truck Thursday night in Texas left at least five people killed and 11 in critical condition. According to Capt. Krista Stedman, public information officer for Austin-Travis County EMS, the accident took place at approximately 11:23 p.m. on Thursday night in Austin, Texas, on Interstate 35 southbound. 

Five people were killed in the incident, including three adults, one child, and one infant, while 11 others were taken to the hospital, authorities said. 

"This incident was incredibly chaotic, and it was spread out over about a tenth of a mile," Stedman said. "So without the collaboration of our partners, we would not have been able to manage the scene as well as we did. We were able to get all the critical patients off the scene within about 40 minutes, and considering how complex the scene was, that's pretty impressive."

Austin Fire Department (AFD) noted that three people were rescued after they were trapped inside vehicles and that a total of 17 people and 17 vehicles were involved in the collision.

Meanwhile, crews said that diesel fuel had reportedly spilled out of the 18-wheeler semi-truck but has since been contained.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the I-35 frontage road lanes are now reopened after being initially closed due to the accident, in which drivers were first told to avoid using that highway. Additionally, tolls are waived for drivers traveling between State Highway 45 and U.S. 290 heading east.

At the present time, an investigation into the cause of the crash has been launched and remains ongoing.

"The vehicular homicide unit is doing their job," Thayer Smith, assistant chief of the Austin Fire Department, said during a press conference. "They're going to do an investigation, which is why the highway may be closed for an extended period of time because it is a very lengthy process."

Prayer for Car Accident Victims

Dear Lord,
We come before You with heavy hearts for all those affected by the devastating accident in Austin, Texas. We lift up every victim, every family, and every first responder who witnessed this tragedy. Lord, we ask for Your peace to cover the families and friends who are mourning the loss of loved ones. Bring them comfort that only You can give in the midst of unimaginable pain.
Father, we also pray for the 11 individuals who are in critical condition. We ask for Your healing hand to be upon them. Please grant strength to the families waiting at their bedsides, and let them feel Your nearness as they walk through this dark valley.
Lord, we lift up all those who are traveling—whether on highways, city roads, or rural streets. We pray for Your protection over every person behind the wheel. Give drivers alertness, patience, and wisdom as they travel. Shield them from harm, accidents, and dangerous situations. We pray for calm and safety on the roads, and that You would guide every traveler safely to their destination.
In Jesus name, we pray,
Amen

Originally published March 14, 2025.