Courtesy photo – Monroe Fire Protection District
Staff report from information gathered on Facebook
MONROE COUNTY, Ind. — September 8, 2023
First responders from the Monroe Fire Protection District (MFD) and Center-Jackson Fire Territory responded early this morning when a semi-truck became engulfed in flames on Interstate 69.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:45 a.m. on Wednesday when MFD and Center-Jackson Fire Territory received an emergency call about a semi-truck fire along the highway.
Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters were met with a semi-tractor fully ablaze, with thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky. The semi-truck was transporting a trailer loaded with oxygen and acetylene torches, as well as heavy equipment, creating a potentially dangerous situation.
Firefighters managed to contain the flames and prevented the fire from spreading to the volatile cargo, including the oxygen and acetylene torches. Additionally, they ensured that the heavy equipment remained unharmed.
The driver of the semi-truck, whose quick response played a crucial role in averting a disaster, reported the incident. He noticed smoke emanating from the back window and decided to pull over to assess the situation. It was only after stopping that he realized his truck was on fire.
No injuries were reported in the incident, and traffic flow on I-69 was temporarily affected but later resumed as the scene was cleared.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
Courtesy photo – Monroe Fire Protection District
Courtesy photo – Monroe Fire Protection District
Courtesy photo – Monroe Fire Protection District
