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Photos: State police response to deadly pileup on Interstate 55

CBS News Live
CBS News Chicago Live

CHICAGO (CBS)-- Illinois Sate Police responded to a deadly pileup on Interstate 55 south of Springfield Monday. 

ISP shared these photos, capturing the dramatic response and recovery during a dust storm. 

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ISP

There are six confirmed fatalities. A total of 37 people were taken to area hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to life threatening. The victims span from 2 years old to 80 years old. 

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ISP

One of the victims who died was identified late Monday as Shirley Harper, 88, of Franklin, Wisconsin.   

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ISP

Police confirmed there were 72 vehicles involved in the crash.

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ISP

The crash was caused by a dust storm. Excessively high winds blew soil from farms onto the roadway. The National Weather Service issued a blowing dust warning for the area, specifically Sangamon, Christian, and Shelby counties on Monday.

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ISP

The Environmental Protection Agency was on the scene since there was a significant diesel spill. 

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ISP

The Salvation Army and Red Cross were on the scene as well.  

Police are expected to provide an update later Tuesday.

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