GEORGETOWN, Clear Creek County, Colo., Nov. 14, 2026 — Six motorists and two Clear Creek County sheriff's deputies were hurt on Thursday morning, November 12, in a chain-reaction crash on eastbound Interstate 70 near Georgetown that shut down the highway.
The Colorado State Patrol said troopers were called to the scene near milepost 228 around 11:25 a.m. Deputies had already arrived to help with a semi-truck that may have caught fire. While they were on scene, a vehicle struck three parked patrol cars, triggering a pileup that pulled in four more vehicles and a second semi-truck.
Three deputies were sitting inside one of the patrol vehicles when it was hit. Two were taken to a hospital, one for possible injuries and one as a precaution, while the third was not hurt.
One motorist was airlifted from the scene with injuries, and three others were taken to hospitals by ground. Officials said it has not yet been determined which vehicle each injured person had been riding in. The eastbound lanes remained closed with no reopening time given, and traffic was being routed off at exit 205 onto eastbound Highway 6.
No cause has been released for the initial collision, and the investigation remains open.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Georgetown, CO
This multi-vehicle crash happened on Interstate 70 in Georgetown, CO. We cover crashes across Clear Creek County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Clear Creek County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I come across a crash scene on the highway?
Slow down well before reaching the scene, move over if it's safe, and watch for responders, debris, or stopped vehicles. Avoid stopping on the shoulder unless you're directly involved or asked to help.
How does fog or low visibility contribute to multi-vehicle pileups?
Reduced visibility shortens the time drivers have to react to stopped or slowing traffic ahead, which can turn a single crash into a chain-reaction pileup involving several vehicles.
Why does following distance matter so much on highways?
Extra space between vehicles gives drivers more time to brake or steer around a hazard, lowering the odds of rear-ending another car if traffic suddenly stops.
Are secondary crashes common after a highway wreck?
Yes. Once a crash blocks lanes or draws stopped traffic, approaching drivers who don't slow down in time can strike the original wreckage or emergency vehicles on scene.
