2 dead in fiery fallen tree wreck closed I-64 west in New Kent

NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. – Two people were killed Thursday morning in a wreck that closed Interstate 64 west in New Kent County.

VDOT officials said the highway near Route 33 (mile marker 206) was closed due to an accident.

State police said the vehicle struck a tree and then caught fire around 11 a.m. That tree then fell across the westbound lanes of the highway and part of the eastbound lanes.

As a result, the eastbound lane and shoulder were closed, as were all westbound lanes.

Traffic was diverted off the highway at Exit 211 to Route 106.

“Motorists should seek alternate routes to avoid delays,” VDOT officials urged.

According to VDOT, traffic was backed up for approximately 8 miles as of 11:55 a.m.

Officials said troopers are working to identify the victims and notify their next of kin.

This is a development story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information to share.

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