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KINGSTON, Tenn. – A semi tractor-trailer caught fire Tuesday afternoon on Interstate 40 eastbound near the Kingston exit, causing major traffic disruptions across the area.
The fire broke out around 2:30 p.m. near mile marker 352, just before the Kingston exit. Officials say the truck was hauling steel products when flames heavily damaged both the tractor and parts of the trailer.
Eastbound traffic was diverted off the interstate at Midtown, leading to significant congestion throughout the City of Kingston. The roadway remained completely shut down for nearly two hours.
Just before 4:00 p.m., crews were able to reopen one lane, allowing traffic to slowly pass the scene.
Firefighters with the Kingston Fire Department were first to respond and brought the blaze under control in about 35 minutes. The fire also spread to nearby trees along James Ferry Road but was quickly contained.
No other vehicles were involved, and the driver was not injured.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
Officials say eastbound lanes will remain reduced while crews continue clearing the wreckage.
