At least three people are dead after a crash and explosion in Cumberland County.

The accident happened at the Crossville exit, mile marker 320, and was reported a little before 3 p.m. Eastern time, according to TDOT Smartway.

According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, a truck tractor with no trailer was traveling east on I-40 when it crossed the median and hit a tractor-trailer hauling automobiles and a passenger vehicle. Both trucks caught fire, and the drivers of both of them were killed. The driver of the other vehicle involved was also killed. A passenger in that vehicle was injured and transported by Lifestar to UT Medical Center.

Both a TDOT spokesperson and witnesses on the scene reporter there were multiple explosions after the accident, and a large fire sent a huge plume of black smoke into the air. (Photos courtesy of James Crowley)