PIERCE COUNTY, WA — A vehicle fire involving a semi-truck was reported late Sunday night on Interstate 5 in south Tacoma, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The event occurred on the northbound lanes at Tacoma Mall Boulevard, near the city’s South End neighborhood. It was first reported by Trooper Robert Reyer at 10:13 p.m.
Authorities have not shared the circumstances behind the blaze, but all northbound lanes in the area were closed in the immediate aftermath. Motorists were urged to avoid the scene as delays were expected in the area.
A vehicle #fire involving a semi-truck is fully blocking all of northbound I5 at Tacoma Mall Blvd in #Tacoma. Avoid the area if possible, and expect delays until the scene is cleared!
— Trooper Robert Reyer (@wspd1pio) January 9, 2023
By 11:36 p.m., the scene appeared to have been moved to the right lane, opening up multiple lanes.
Only the right lane is currently blocked. All other lanes are open.
— Trooper Robert Reyer (@wspd1pio) January 9, 2023
At 12:51 a.m., more than 2.5 hours later, all lanes were reopened to traffic.
All lanes are open! The truck is still being towed, but it will be clear soon. Thank you for your patience.
— Trooper Robert Reyer (@wspd1pio) January 9, 2023
The WSP has not said whether a crash caused the fire. No injuries have been reported as of this writing.
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