Firefighter injured after car slides off icy I-470 into emergency response team

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - A firefighter was seriously injured after a car slid off icy I-470 into an emergency response team tending to a separate accident. I-470 has since reopened.

Update: Officials told 13 NEWS that firefighters had responded to reports of a rollover vehicle - the red SUV - and had attempted to clear the scene. However, as they did so, another vehicle that had crossed the bridge right before the exit - which had iced over - slid off the interstate, rolled down the embankment and hit a firefighter.

Officials indicated that personnel on the scene started to immediately tend to the firefighter who was then rushed to a local hospital with serious injuries. It has been reported that the firefighter is alert at the hospital.

TFD noted that both drivers of the vehicles involved were treated for minor injuries at the scene and did not require hospitalization.

The Topeka Police Department says around 8 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12, that it has closed westbound I-470 at the Huntoon St. exit due to multiple crashes.

TPD indicated that multiple law enforcement agencies are on the scene attempting to clear the accidents.

The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate both accidents.

Icy road conditions are believed to have played a part in the collision.

KHP indicated around 11:15 a.m. that I-470 had reopened.

Officials have said they will hold a news conference later today to discuss this morning’s events.

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