Semi catches fire, blocks lane on I-15

Blackfoot, Idaho (KIFI) — Southbound Interstate 15 had one lane blocked between Idaho Falls and Blackfoot as Idaho State Police investigated a vehicle fire that happened at about 6:15 p.m. Sunday, July 14.

It happened just at milepost 103, north of Hell's Half Acre Rest Area.

Idaho State Police said a 52-year-old male from Atlanta, GA, was driving a 2019 Freightliner semi. The semi had a mechanical failure, and the trailer caught on fire. The driver managed to detach the trailer from the cab.

One lane of travel was reopened about 3 hours later.

While clearing the scene, a second accident happened. Police said a car was rear-ended when it was slowing down for the accident scene. No injuries were reported.

Idaho State Police was assisted by Bingham County Sheriff’s, Shelley Fire Department, and Wildland Fire.

This incident remains under investigation by the Idaho State Police.