BEAUMONT, Texas — Two drivers were killed Thursday morning in a head-on wreck that forced the closure of eastbound Interstate 10 west of Beaumont for almost six hours.
At around 7:15 a.m. a 2017 Volkswagen passenger car traveling west along Interstate 10 near Boyt Road struck the median barrier and traveled into the eastbound lanes where it struck a 2006 Ford pickup head-on according to a news release from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
After the initial impact the Ford pickup also struck an eastbound 2002 Chevrolet pickup.
Both the driver of the Volkswagen and the Ford pickup were pronounced dead at the scene while no one in the Chevrolet pickup was injured the release said.
The Ford pickup appeared to have caught fire and burned at the scene.
The names of the drivers will not be released until after their families are notified according the DPS.
The wreck forced the closure of all eastbound lanes and one of the westbound lanes of the interstate but just before 1 p.m. all lanes had been reopened.
Drivers are urged to avoid the area and find a different route.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.
From a Texas Department of Public Safety news release...
A 2017 Volkswagen passenger car was traveling west while a 2006 Ford pickup was traveling east. The passenger car, for an unknown reason, struck the barrier which divides the east and westbound lanes. It then traveled into the eastbound lane, striking the Ford head on. After impact, the Ford then struck a 2002 Chevrolet pickup which was also traveling east.
The drivers of the Volkswagen and the Ford were pronounced deceased on scene.
Their identities are not available at this time pending notification of kin.
No injuries were reported with occupants of the Chevrolet.
I-10 eastbound is still currently blocked. I-10 westbound has one lane open for travel. Motorists should expect delays.
The investigation is ongoing, additional information will be released as it becomes available.