Big rig hauling 22,000 pounds of strawberries catches fire on I-5 near Westley
A big rig hauling about 22,000 pounds of strawberries caught fire early Thursday along Interstate 5 near Westley, forcing the closure of a northbound lane and causing what authorities expect will be hours of traffic delays.
The fire was reported around 6 a.m. on northbound I-5, just north of Howard Road, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Aaron Fay.
The truck driver noticed flames coming from the trailer’s tires, safely pulled onto the shoulder and disconnected the tractor from the burning trailer before the fire spread, Fay said. No injuries were reported.
The trailer was heavily damaged. Photos released by CHP showed firefighters working atop the burned trailer as charred pallets, produce and packaging spilled onto the shoulder.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Caltrans closed the right lane while firefighters extinguished the blaze and crews began the lengthy cleanup process. Fay said motorists should expect significant backups on northbound I-5 and estimated the lane would not reopen until at least noon.
Because of the extensive fire damage, a tow company likely will have to dismantle the trailer at the scene before it can be removed, Fay said.
Drivers traveling through the area should consider alternate routes.
