Semitrailer Crashes on I-70 Bridge in West Metro Denver

Eastbound lanes closed as officials investigate incident and clear scene

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:38pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a heavily damaged semi-truck tire tread, with the textured rubber and metal wires exposed, conceptually representing the sudden impact and investigation of a highway crash.A damaged semi-truck tire tread provides a stark visual reminder of the sudden impact and ongoing investigation into a major highway crash that disrupted traffic in the Denver metro area.Denver Today

A semitrailer hauling an empty trailer crashed and partially rolled off a bridge on eastbound Interstate 70 in west metro Denver on Friday afternoon, closing two lanes of traffic as authorities investigate the incident and clear the scene.

Why it matters

Major highway closures can significantly disrupt traffic flow and commutes in the Denver metro area, especially during peak travel times. This crash highlights the importance of highway safety and the potential impact of commercial vehicle incidents on critical transportation infrastructure.

The details

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the crash occurred at 2:34 p.m. near the Colfax Avenue exit when the semitrailer just crossed over a bridge before crashing and rolling off the road. The trailer came to rest on a concrete embankment below the bridge, but the 58-year-old driver was not injured.

  • The crash happened at 2:34 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026.

The players

Colorado State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency investigating the crash and managing the incident response.

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What’s next

Colorado Department of Transportation crews are working to clear the scene and reopen the closed eastbound lanes of I-70.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of commercial vehicle safety and the potential for major highway disruptions when crashes occur on critical transportation infrastructure like bridges. Authorities will likely review the circumstances around this crash to determine if any safety improvements or policy changes are needed.