Carlin Tunnel for I-80 reopened after multi-vehicle crash west of Elko

CARLIN, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — Carlin Tunnel has reopened after a multi-vehicle crash closed the westbound Interstate 80 passageway for much of Thursday afternoon, according to Nevada Highway Patrol.

Trooper Jim Stewart said in an email that NHP responded to reports of multiple crashes inside the westbound tunnel west of Elko Thursday, Feb. 22.

Six vehicles were involved, with three being commercial vehicles, Stewart said, and the roads were extremely icy.

The initial investigation indicates two SUVs were heading west in the tunnel when they lost traction and crashed. Three semi tractor-trailers entered the tunnel and lost traction as well, colliding with each other and the SUVs. Another car entered the tunnel and hit the back of a semi.

One person involved in the crash suffered a possible broken leg, according to Stewart. All other people involved had minor injuries.

I-80 was closed for more than three hours due to the crash, with both lanes reopening by 3:15 p.m. NDOT was able to divert traffic through the Carlin Tunnel bypass road after about an hour.

NHP reminds drivers to reduce their speed on snow-covered roads.