A tractor-trailer caught fire on Monday afternoon along Interstate 79 in Washington County, Pennsylvania.
The incident happened near mile marker 37 in the northbound lanes, causing major traffic delays and bringing emergency crews to the scene.
The fire broke out just before 3 p.m., according to local authorities. The driver of the tractor-trailer noticed smoke coming from the back of the vehicle and pulled over quickly. Moments later, the trailer was engulfed in flames.
Emergency responders from the Chartiers Township Volunteer Fire Department and nearby departments rushed to the scene. Firefighters worked quickly to control the flames and prevent them from spreading to nearby areas. It took several minutes to bring the fire under control.
The good news is that no injuries were reported. The driver of the truck was able to escape safely. Officials confirmed that the truck was carrying furniture, which likely helped fuel the fire once it started.
Pennsylvania State Police assisted in shutting down the northbound lanes of I-79 to allow fire crews to work safely. Traffic was backed up for several miles while the fire was being handled and cleanup efforts were underway.
A witness who was driving behind the trailer captured video footage of the fire. The footage shows large flames and thick black smoke rising high into the air, visible from a distance.
The video has since been shared widely on social media, with many viewers expressing shock at the intensity of the blaze.
PennDOT crews also arrived at the site to help with clearing the burned trailer and cleaning debris off the road. They also assessed the condition of the roadway to ensure it was safe for vehicles to pass once reopened.
Fire officials are still investigating the cause of the fire, but they believe it may have started due to a mechanical issue or overheating near the wheels. A full inspection of the vehicle will be conducted once it is completely cooled and safe to examine.
Drivers in the area were advised to avoid the northbound section of I-79 during the afternoon hours. PennDOT issued alerts through traffic advisory systems and social media updates. By early evening, one lane had reopened, and full traffic flow was expected to resume later that night.
According to fire officials, this incident serves as a reminder for all commercial drivers to keep a regular check on their vehicles and watch for any early signs of overheating or mechanical failure. Preventive maintenance can often help avoid such dangerous situations on busy roads.
This is not the first time a truck has caught fire on this stretch of I-79. In recent years, there have been a few similar cases involving commercial vehicles experiencing brake failures or overheating trailers. Fire departments in the area are well-equipped and trained to handle such emergencies.
Anyone traveling through Washington County on I-79 should stay updated through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and 511PA for real-time road conditions and alerts.
No further details about the truck company or the final destination of the cargo have been released as of now.
The quick response by fire crews and the awareness of the driver helped prevent what could have been a more serious incident. Authorities thanked the public for their patience as emergency crews managed the situation.
The investigation will continue, and more information may be released once the cause of the fire is officially confirmed.