Shortly after 2 p.m. Monday, a multi-vehicle fatal crash occurred on I-10 west approximately four miles east of Butte La Rose that claimed the life of 31-year-old Christopher McGee of Youngstown, Florida, according to a news release from Louisiana State Police Troop I.
The initial investigation revealed there was a separate single vehicle crash which resulted in that vehicle becoming disabled in the roadway. As westbound traffic slowed for this crash, three 18-wheelers and several passenger vehicles began a chain reaction crash.
McGee was operating a 2017 Freightliner tractor-trailer which became engulfed in flames. He suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene.
Several injuries ranging from minor to moderate were reported from other drivers and occupants involved, and some were taken to local hospitals. This crash remains under investigation, and no further information is available at this time.
The westbound lanes of I-10 remain closed as of 11 a.m. Tuesday for emergency crews to remove vehicles and debris from the roadway.
The state Department of Transportation and Development will inspect the bridge before the westbound lanes are reopened.
For updated information on this interstate closure visit www.511la.org.