The crash left vehicles crushed, fuel leaking, and fire hazards at the scene. “Cars stacked on top of each other—it looked like a war zone,” a firefighter recalled. Northbound traffic was closed for nearly 12 hours, while southbound lanes partially reopened in the evening.
Moments before the crash, witnesses reported the trailer swerving erratically, honking, and flashing lights, warning other drivers. Local authorities have long raised concerns about this highway section. Heavy cargo trucks descend steep hills at high speed, and previous accidents highlight the ongoing risks.
Governor Delfina Gómez expressed condolences, promising a thorough investigation and support for families. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador emphasized the need for stricter transportation safety protocols and better oversight of freight operators.
By Thursday, the aftermath remained visible: charred vehicles, twisted guardrails, and grieving families waiting for news of missing loved ones. Social media flooded with tributes, calls for stricter truck regulations, and photos highlighting the dangers of poorly maintained vehicles.
Transport experts warn the problem is systemic. “Many trailers have outdated brakes and overloaded cargo. One mechanical failure can become a catastrophe in seconds,” said logistics consultant Mario Delgado.
The Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT) announced immediate inspections on heavy trucks and plans to evaluate emergency escape ramps on the Huehuetoca incline—long demanded by local communities.
Vigils are underway in Huehuetoca and surrounding towns, with candles, flowers, and prayers for the victims. “It’s not just one accident,” said Father Ignacio Ruiz. “It’s a system that needs change to prevent more lives lost.”
Authorities continue to investigate, analyzing the trailer’s black box and conducting toxicology tests on the driver. Meanwhile, families grieve, and the nation reflects on the fragility of life along Mexico’s busy highways.
Have you ever experienced or witnessed a highway accident that left you shaken? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments to raise awareness about road safety.