Semi-Truck Fire on I-5 Shuts Traffic Down at Milepost 246 Near Jefferson.

Both lanes of I-5 southbound were closed for over an hour.

Photo courtesy: Jefferson Fire

(JEFFERSON) - Jefferson Firefighters responded to a semi-truck fire, on I-5 southbound just before the N. Jefferson Exit at milepost 246. The fire tied up southbound traffic during the early morning commute.

The truck, owned by Dynamic Distribution, was headed to Grants Pass with a load of frozen, deli, and dry food that eventually was headed for distribution to Cash & Carry outlets in Northern California.

The driver, Donald Sandercock of Clackamas, was not injured. The driver indicated that he was beginning to accelerate once he reached the bottom of Illahee Hill and he heard a loud bang. The fire started in the engine compartment.

According to Assistant Chief Scott Shepherd, Jefferson Firefighters were returning from another call and were able to reach the burning truck within minutes. Upon their arrival the engine and cab were engulfed in flames.

Both lanes of I-5 southbound were closed for over an hour Firefighters from Jefferson and Turner extinguished the truck blaze and were able to limit damage to the trailer containing the food.

The loss of the vehicle and trailer damage is listed at $50,000. The cause is listed as mechanical. Both lanes of I-5 southbound were closed for over an hour and then opened to one lane while the tow truck company was preparing to remove the truck and trailer. OSP and ODOT were also on scene on the incident.