Five Dead in Multi-Vehicle Crash on I-35 in Austin

AUSTIN, Texas — Five people were killed in a multi-vehicle collision involving a semi-truck late Thursday night on Interstate 35, according to the Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS). Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at approximately 11:23 p.m. near the 3100 block of southbound I-35, close to Parmer Lane, following reports of a severe traffic incident.

Upon arrival, crews discovered a significant crash scene and rescued three individuals who were trapped in their vehicles. ATCEMS noted that 11 total people were transported to local hospitals, with two adults suffering serious injuries taken to St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center. Two additional adults were sent to Dell Seton Medical Center, also with severe injuries, while one person was treated for minor injuries.

Three children were also among those transported, with one child potentially in critical condition and two others sustaining minor injuries. In total, three adults received treatment for minor injuries at Seton Medical Center.

The crash involved 17 vehicles, including the semi-truck, which reportedly spilled diesel fuel onto the roadway. Crews worked quickly to contain the spill, according to ATCEMS Captain Christa Stedman, who stated that all patients in critical condition were removed from the scene within approximately 40 minutes.

Authorities advised drivers to avoid I-35 and the surrounding service roads, as the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) indicated that the main lanes would be closed for several hours as the investigation continues. This response included personnel from the Austin Police Department (APD), ATCEMS, and the Austin Fire Department (AFD).

As of Friday morning, no arrests or charges had been made related to the incident. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.