— Officials say one person died in a car fire that closed the westbound lanes of Interstate 40 in Durham Monday.

Around 10 a.m., at least three cars were fully engulfed in flames near the Davis Drive exit (Exit 280). Flames and black smoke towered into the air.

Seven cars were involved in the crash. The three that caught fire appeared to burn from the inside out.

Dempsey Smith, 63, of Wilson died as a result of the crash. Other drivers were taken to Duke and UNC Hospitals for treatment.

All lanes were closed on I-40 West, and drivers were diverted off the highway while emergency personnel put out the fires and cleared the wreckage. The road re-opened to traffic around 2 p.m.

Troopers are investigating the events that led to the crash and said it is unclear if charges will be filed.