BLACK CANYON CITY, Ariz. (CBS News) — Motorists heading toward Phoenix from northern Arizona Sunday (Oct. 23) encountered two major delays on Interstate 17 that brought their travel to a halt.
Up to 20 vehicles were involved after a cattle hauler unable to stop plowed into them, Arizona Department of Public Safety troopers said.
The collisions happened just before 1:30 p.m. forcing the closure of the southbound lanes at Sunset Point
“There were very long delays on I-17,” ADOT tweeted.
Four people were flown to hospitals with moderate to serious injuries, DPS said.
Phoenix Fire Department was assisting with engines, a ladder truck, a battalion chief and ambulances, Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said.
Arizona Department of Public Safety troopers were investigating why the cattle hauler was unable to stop.
A short time earlier, at New River, both I-17 southbound lanes were closed for a deadly motorcycle accident.
The backup was close to 8 miles at one point. Once the wreckage was cleared, the lanes reopened.
