Seven people dead in six-vehicle chain reaction crash on I-85

Investigators say truck driver was following too closely in I-85 six-vehicle chain reaction crash that killed seven.

Seven people were killed in an accident that investigators say was likely caused by a truck driver following too closely in Georgia on Monday. 

The accident happened on Interstate 85 in Jackson County, Georgia at 4:11 p.m. south of mile marker 147. 

According to Fox 5 Atlanta, a semi truck was likely following too closely when it crashed into the back of a Dodge van, causing the can to catch fire. Four more vehicle then crashed as a result of the initial collision. 

All seven people inside of the van were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not been released. No other serious injuries were reported, but an animal rescue van transporting 37 cats was involved in the crash, and the rescue reports that several of the animals were injured. Five cats are still missing. 

Investigators have not released information on the exact reason for the initial collision that caused the six-vehicle chain reaction crash, or whether speed or impairment were contributing factors.