A Semi-trailer carrying 3 African elephants caught fire Monday morning on Interstate 24, near mile marker 171 Eastbound.
Officials say the driver unloaded the trailer as a precaution. All of the the elephants are okay, but they did take first responders by surprise.
"This doesn't happen everyday, that was my thought is this really doesn't happen everyday," said Capt. Wadie Suttles, Chattanooga Fire Dept.
Firefighters were stunned but they had a job to do. The tractor trailer hauling these elephants, unexpectedly caught fire.
Officials say the cab was fully engulfed in flames, forcing the animals out onto the interstate.
First responders were advised to approach with caution.