At least 12 people were killed and dozens injured in two pile-ups involving more than 50 vehicles on Bulgaria’s Trakia motorway near Yambol on Tuesday morning. The crashes occurred on both carriageways, according to Euronews.
The wrecks happened a few kilometres apart near the Zimnitsa junction, on the route linking Sofia with the Black Sea city of Burgas. Dense fog was reported in the area, but the cause of the crashes had not been established as a final finding.
Emergency crews worked to free people trapped in vehicles, including tanker lorries. Rescuers cut through twisted metal, and injured people were taken to hospitals in Yambol and nearby Sliven. Some were reported to be in serious or life-threatening condition.
Motorway closed in both directions
Authorities shut the motorway between the Zimnitsa and Kabile junctions while emergency services responded and investigators examined the scene. The Road Infrastructure Agency said the closure would continue for some time because of the heavy vehicles involved and the investigation.
Prime Minister Rumen Radev cancelled engagements in Varna after the crashes and travelled to the scene. Interior and health ministry officials were also dispatched to the area.
Clayton Ward