The California Highway Patrol has confirmed one fatality and multiple injuries in a big-rig crash this morning on state Highway 17 in Santa Clara County.
Northbound lanes of Highway 17 have been shut down and traffic is being diverted onto state Highway 9, according to CHP. The crash was reported at about 7:50 a.m., and a Sig-alert was issued at 8:16 a.m., CHP said.
[Previous: ALERT: Fatal Crash on Hwy 17 Shuts Lanes Near Bear Creek Road.]
According to CHP spokesman Officer Ross Lee, while the cause of the crash is still under investigation, it appears that the big-rig lost its brakes and jackknifed while traveling north on Highway 17 south of Bear Creek Road.
At least eight vehicles were involved in the crash, and multiple injuries were reported. Five ambulances and a life-flight helicopter were sent to the scene of the crash, according to Lee.
Lee said one person died after being ejected from a vehicle. Northbound traffic is being turned around at Summit Road, and state Highway 9 is being used as alternative to Highway 17, CHP said.
Lee said the northbound lanes of Highway 17 will remain closed until about 5 p.m.
--Bay City News
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