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Squirrel Hill Tunnel Reopened After Three‑Vehicle Crash and Fire

PennDOT reported inspections found no structural damage while electrical fixes were finished and tile damage was flagged for a future lane restriction.

Overview

  • A three-vehicle crash in the eastbound Squirrel Hill Tunnel ignited a fire that produced heavy smoke and forced drivers to evacuate their vehicles.
  • Fire, police and EMS crews put out the blaze and evaluated people on scene with two individuals taken to hospital for minor injuries.
  • Officials closed the tunnel in both directions for about three hours before reopening it to traffic just before 10 p.m.
  • PennDOT said its inspection found no structural damage, completed necessary electrical repairs, and noted tile damage that will require a future lane restriction that has not yet been scheduled.
  • The brief closure disrupted traffic on the Parkway East and officials warn that planned tile repairs could cause localized lane controls when dates are set.