UPDATE (January 2, 2017 11:15 a.m.): One of two people killed in Saturday's multiple-collision accident has been identified as 35-year-old Altagracia Gutierrez of Manteca, California. Gutierrez was a passenger of a vehicle involved in the crash and died at the scene.

The other fatality was 50-year-old Miguel Angel Irigoyen of Manteca, California. He was operating a vehicle caught in the collision and died at the scene from his injuries.

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UPDATE (1:45p.m.): Traffic is being diverted at 166 to state route 99 south. More than 20 vehicles involved and counting in two separate collision scenes. Two people have been confirmed dead at the more southern collision officials said it was a 50 year old man and 35 year old woman. 

The northern collision scene had at least one major injury. 

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The California Highway Patrol is responding to a multiple vehicle crash on southbound I-5. 

It happened just before 9:00 a.m. Initial reports are that nearly 30 vehicles were involved. Multiple injuries have been reported. Two people have been confirmed dead. 

Southbound lanes of I-5 are shut down just north of the I-5/99 split. 

It is suggested that drivers take an alternate route. 

It is unknown when the roadway will reopen.