A serious crash in southern Arizona claimed multiple lives after a passenger van carrying a large group overturned late Thursday night.

According to authorities, the incident happened at around 9 p.m. on U.S. Highway 191 near West Wells Ranch Road. The van was transporting 12 people at the time of the crash.

Investigators say three individuals were ejected from the vehicle during the crash and were pronounced dead at the scene. Officials with the Arizona Department of Public Safety confirmed those fatalities.

Emergency responders rushed to the area, and several of the injured required immediate medical attention. Four people were airlifted to a hospital in Tucson due to the severity of their injuries. Among them, two were reported to be in critical condition.

In addition to those seriously hurt, five other passengers were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

The crash led to a major closure of Highway 191 in the area as crews worked to respond to the scene and investigate what happened. Authorities initially expected the roadway to remain shut down until about 5 a.m. Friday. The highway has since reopened.

At this time, officials have not released details about what caused the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Source: AZFamily