A traffic incident involving a single big rig occurred today on Interstate 8 East near In Ko Pah Eo in Ocotillo, CA. Initial reports suggested that the semi-truck was on fire, prompting a swift response from emergency services. However, upon arrival, authorities confirmed that there was no fire and no injuries reported.
The situation began around 5:00 PM when calls were made regarding the potential fire. Fire crews were dispatched, but by 5:49 PM, it was determined that the vehicle had a dead battery and was stuck in a ditch. The driver managed to extinguish a small fire using a fire extinguisher before emergency services arrived.
Traffic was affected during the response, leading to lane closures as crews worked to clear the scene. Fortunately, the incident was resolved without any injuries, and the driver was waiting for assistance to tow the vehicle.
The California Highway Patrol later classified the incident as a traffic collision with no injuries, ensuring that the roadway was safe for travel once the vehicle was removed. Motorists are advised to remain cautious in the area as cleanup operations are completed.
This incident highlights the importance of quick emergency response and the effectiveness of fire extinguishers in managing small vehicle fires.