VIDEO: The truck fire that caused the days-long shutdown of the I-15 was the first of its kind in the nation, according to highway agency CalTrans, which led to an unprecedented response for removal of hazardous materials.
July 26, California Highway Patrol officials said a tanker carrying “lithium iron” caught fire north of Baker on I-15, leading to a virtual shutdown of the freeway for almost two days. Drivers sought a detour with a 50-mile backup on I-40.
The lithium iron shipment was headed to a solar farm in Wisconsin, according to CHP. Officers tell FOX5, they were well-equipped to manage a fire involving the more commonly-used “lithium ion,” but needed assistance from Emergency Management and hazardous materials experts once the cause of the blaze was identified.