BASTROP COUNTY, Texas — Three people, including two contractors working on a Texas Department of Transportation project, died in a crash early Thursday on State Highway 71 near the Travis County-Bastrop County line, according to the Bastrop County sheriff.
The sheriff confirmed to CBS Austin that the crash killed two contractors and a 26-year-old woman who was driving a Nissan sedan.
The crash happened in the westbound lanes of SH 71 at Tucker Hill Lane on Thursday, Oct. 29, prompting the closure of all westbound lanes for about two hours.
TxDOT initially confirmed the deaths of the two contractors but did not provide information about additional fatalities.
In a statement, TxDOT said it was “deeply saddened by the loss of lives” and that its thoughts were with the contractors’ families and coworkers.
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The identities of the three people who died have not been released.
Authorities have not confirmed what caused the crash or provided additional details about the circumstances leading up to the collision.
TxDOT urged drivers to exercise caution in construction zones, pay attention to road signs, adjust their speed to driving conditions, avoid distractions and never drive impaired.
The crash remains under investigation.