Updated: 3 Hospitalized in Fiery Route 37 Pileup

Updated: 3:30 p.m.

Three people were hospitalized after a fiery multi-car crash on Route 37 near the Pontiac Avenue exit in Cranston on Thursday.

State Police Capt. William Jamieson said that the crash occurred shortly before 12:30 p.m. when a car stopped suddenly and was rear-ended, sending it into another car stopped in front of it.

A fourth car smashed into the accumulating wreckage and moments later, the middle two vehicles, a small sedan and an SUV, burst into flames.

No details about the extent of the injuries were immediatley available.

From Earlier:

Both lanes of travel on Route 37 westbound have been shut down after a fiery crash involving multiple cars.

The crash happened after noon Thursday right before the Pontiac Avenue exit on the westbound lane of the highway.

The crash appears to have involved four cars, including one vehicle that was wedged beneath an SUV. Both became engulfed with flames.

At least three rescues were dispatched to the scene, though there was no immediate information on injuries.

Crews from Cranston and Warwick responded to the accident.

Traffic is reportedly backing up onto Interstate 95.

Traffic is moving in the eastbound direction.

This story will be updated.

Photos Courtesy: Kyle DuBreuil, NBC10.