PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Authorities have identified the two people killed in a devastating multi-vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon near the Fort Duquesne Bridge on Pittsburgh’s North Shore.

According to the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, the victims were identified as 52-year-old Michael Smith of Sheraden and 58-year-old Danielle Jackman of Churchill.

The crash happened around 3 p.m. near the interchange connecting the Fort Duquesne Bridge, Route 65, and Route 28.

Officials said the collision involved five vehicles and resulted in one vehicle plunging off the interchange onto Reedsdale Street below.

Investigators said Michael Smith was driving the vehicle that went over the bridge railing during the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene after the vehicle fell from the elevated roadway.

Danielle Jackman was trapped inside another heavily damaged vehicle on the bridge.

Emergency crews used the Jaws of Life to free her from the wreckage before she was transported to UPMC Mercy Hospital for treatment.

Despite life-saving efforts, Jackman later died from her injuries at the hospital.

Pittsburgh Police Chief Jason Lando and public safety officials described the collision as a “very serious crash.” Multiple EMS units, firefighters, and police officers responded to the chaotic scene.

Several additional people involved in the collision were evaluated by emergency medical personnel at the scene but declined transportation to the hospital. Authorities said others involved in the crash were able to walk away without serious injuries.

The crash caused major traffic disruptions across the North Shore area for several hours. According to PennDOT, Route 65 was reopened to traffic around 7 p.m.

Investigators are continuing to examine what led to the fatal chain-reaction crash. Officials have not yet released information regarding possible contributing factors, including speed, impairment, or mechanical failure.

The investigation remains ongoing.