UPDATE: Accident on 550 results in two fatalities

The crash that shut down US Highway 550 Thursday afternoon proved to be a double fatality, according to the Rio Rancho Police Department.

The highway was shut down in both directions near Northwest Loop Road around 2:45 p.m. Aug. 15.

Police announced around 6:30 p.m. that the severe accident resulted in the death of two people involved.

According to Capt. Jacquelynn Reedy, "Today at approximately 2:17 p.m., the Rio Rancho Police Department and Rio Rancho Fire Rescue were dispatched to Highway 550 and Northwest Loop regarding a severe motor vehicle accident. The preliminary investigation shows that a Dodge Challenger with three occupants was traveling east on Highway 550, and a Cadillac with two occupants was attempting to make a left turn onto west Highway 550 from Northwest Loop when the vehicles collided," Capt. Jacquelynn Reedy of RRPD said in a statement. "Two occupants of the Challenger have succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision. All three remaining occupants were transported to area hospitals and in stable condition. The investigation is still active. The roadway will open at the completion of the roadway investigation.

"Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and community members affected by today’s tragedy. Additionally, we want to express our pride and appreciation to all officers, firefighters and medical personnel who worked tirelessly to save the lives of those involved," she said.

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US-550 is shut down in both directions as of 2:45 p.m. Aug. 15.

The area near Northwest Loop Road is closed due to an accident.

"Please be patient and avoid the area," the Rio Rancho Police Department stated in a social media post.

This is a developing story and will be updated as information becomes available.