Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP) says a portion of U.S. 50 near Sheckler Road in Fallon is closed after a fatal three-car crash involving a semi-truck early Tuesday morning. 

The crash happened around 7:30 a.m. and involved an empty cement semi-truck, mini-van and a sedan.

NHP says the mini-van driver was heading west on U.S. 50 when it pulled in front of the semi-truck causing the driver of the truck to swerve to the left to avoid the mini-van. That’s when NHP says the semi-truck hit the mini-van and then sideswiped the sedan. 

The truck lost control, went across the highway, crashed into a power pole and gas line and then went down an embankment. 

NHP says the semi-truck driver died on scene, while the mini-van driver suffered a broken arm. The third driver was not hurt.

The investigation remains ongoing, but troopers say the unidentified driver was either thrown from the truck's cab during the crash or the driver was pushed out due to the subsequent explosion. 

NHP says power lines were also damaged in the incident, and that power is out for more than 1,400 customers. 

A viewer tells us his RV park has been evacuated.

Southwest Gas says because of the crash, natural gas supply to the area is being reduced until repairs are made.

They said with low temperatures coming on Tuesday night, residents should prepare ahead of time.

Southwest Gas says residents are asked to conserve natural gas to ensure service to Fallon is not interrupted during the repairs.

Ways you can conserve gas are:

  • Use only vital natural gas appliances
  • Set your thermostat to 65-68 degrees, health permitting
  • Dress warmly while inside your home

They also want to remind resident never to use appliances for anything other than their intended use, including heating the interior of the home. If you smell sulfur-like aromas of natural gas, immediately go to a safe location and call 9-1-1 and Southwest Gas at (887) 860-6020.