Tragic Multi-Vehicle Pile-Up Claims Lives in Central Japan

A catastrophic highway incident in central Japan has resulted in two fatalities and left 26 others injured. Authorities reported that a crash involving at least 50 vehicles occurred, igniting a series of collisions that caused numerous vehicles to catch fire.

The Incident Unfolds

The chaos began with a collision between two trucks, which triggered a chain reaction leading to at least 10 vehicles being engulfed in flames, as detailed by local police. One of the deceased is a 77-year-old woman from Tokyo, while another victim was located in the driver’s seat of a burnt-out truck. Of the injured, five sustained serious injuries and 21 others experienced minor injuries.

Conditions Contributing to the Accident

At the time of the incident, a heavy snow warning was in effect. Authorities suspect that icy road conditions may have played a significant role in causing the trucks to lose traction.

Details of the Crash

The unfortunate event occurred on the Kan-etsu Expressway in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Tokyo, at around 7:30 PM local time (10:30 GMT) on December 26. Fire crews faced a challenging battle, taking around seven and a half hours to extinguish the flames.

Aftermath and Recovery Efforts

In the wake of the pile-up, part of the highway has been closed, resulting in a traffic jam of vehicles, many of which were charred beyond recognition. Efforts to tow these vehicles away are currently underway.

Eyewitness Accounts

A man in his 60s, whose vehicle was caught in the pile-up, recounted to local media that he heard a deafening explosion from the crash site and witnessed flames spreading across other vehicles. He, along with approximately 50 others, was evacuated to a nearby toll gate, where they spent the night awaiting further assistance.

Safety Precautions and Warnings

Nexco, the company responsible for operating the highway, has stated that inspections will be conducted to assess any damage caused to the surface by the fire. They are also advising travelers to avoid using the highway until further notice.