Three people were killed today in a multiple car and truck crash that caused an explosion and fire inside a commuter tunnel in Melbourne.
A truck destroyed the fire in Melbourne's Burnley Tunnel
As thick black smoke filled the Burnley Tunnel and rose out of ventilation funnels, hundreds of commuters abandoned vehicles and walked out of the tunnel under the Yarra River in Australia's second-biggest city.
The three people were killed in the collision between four trucks and three cars deep inside the 3.4-kilometre long tunnel.
A CityLink road spokesman said the tunnel ventilation system appeared to work well and no one seemed to be seriously affected by smoke or fumes.
Truck driver Matt Galea said he saw flames reach the roof of the tunnel and felt shock waves from the explosions.
"Being in the cabin I was a bit higher than other motorists and could see over the vehicles in front and just saw these huge flames hit the roof," Mr Galea said.
"The next thing I knew was the emergency system instructing all drivers to stop their cars, turn off their ignitions, and leave their cars. We were all evacuated straight back out of the tunnel from the same entrance."
AP