Fatal Three-Vehicle Crash on U.S. Highway 6 in Carbon County, Utah
CARBON COUNTY, Utah — A tragic three-vehicle accident on U.S. Highway 6 claimed the life of one individual on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. at milepost 259, approximately 15 miles southeast of Price, amid dangerous weather conditions that contributed to the collision.
According to a report from the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP), a Tesla was traveling westbound on the highway when it encountered a heavy thunderstorm. The combination of slick roads and the sudden downpour caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The Tesla reportedly spun out and veered into the eastbound lanes, setting off a chain-reaction crash.
As the Tesla crossed into oncoming traffic, it first struck a camping trailer that was being towed by a pickup truck traveling east. The impact of this initial collision destabilized the Tesla, which was then struck on the driver’s side by an eastbound GMC Yukon SUV.
The force of the crash inflicted fatal injuries on the driver of the Tesla, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, pending notification of family members.
The driver of the GMC Yukon sustained only minor injuries and was treated at the scene. The individual driving the pickup truck towing the camper trailer was unharmed, according to UHP.
Emergency responders and law enforcement officials quickly arrived at the crash site. Traffic on U.S. Highway 6 was temporarily impacted as crews worked to investigate the scene, clear the wreckage, and ensure the safety of other motorists in the area. The highway is a well-traveled route through eastern Utah and is known for its narrow lanes, steep grades, and susceptibility to hazardous weather, all of which can contribute to dangerous driving conditions.
UHP officials emphasized that the crash is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather, especially on high-speed highways. “Even the most technologically advanced vehicles can become uncontrollable under the right—or wrong—conditions,” said a UHP spokesperson. “This incident illustrates how critical it is for drivers to slow down and exercise extreme caution when driving during thunderstorms or on slick roadways.”
The National Weather Service had issued warnings for thunderstorms in the region earlier that day, citing the potential for heavy rainfall, reduced visibility, and dangerous driving conditions. Though it is not yet confirmed whether the Tesla’s autopilot or driver-assistance features were engaged at the time of the crash, investigators are looking into all contributing factors, including road conditions, vehicle dynamics, and weather patterns at the time of the incident.
As the investigation continues, officials urge drivers to monitor local weather alerts and adjust travel plans accordingly when severe weather is expected. The Utah Department of Transportation and Utah Highway Patrol continue to promote safe driving campaigns aimed at reducing highway fatalities across the state.
This accident adds to a growing list of fatal crashes on U.S. Highway 6, which has long been considered one of the more dangerous routes in Utah due to its curvy terrain and high-speed traffic. Safety improvements and public awareness campaigns have helped reduce accidents over the years, but Sunday’s tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the risks that remain.
The Utah Highway Patrol has extended condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim and asks that anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information contact their local UHP office.