Hamilton County, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT / WSMV) — Traffic is beginning to move again on Interstate 75 North in Hamilton County after a dramatic fire involving a trailer carrying fireworks caused multiple explosions Saturday night.
As of 10:58 p.m. EST, the Tennessee Department of Transportation reported that one northbound lane had reopened, allowing vehicles to slowly pass through the area. However, two lanes and the shoulder remained blocked as emergency crews continued their response.
The incident happened just past the Ooltewah exit when a pickup truck pulling a box trailer loaded with fireworks caught fire. According to the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department and Chattanooga Fire Department, the fire quickly sparked a series of explosions.
Video shared by the Chattanooga Fire Department showed traffic stopped along the interstate while fireworks shot into the air in multiple directions, creating dangerous conditions for drivers.
Firefighters from several departments responded to the scene and worked to control the blaze, including shuttling water to the area. Images released by officials show a heavily charred trailer still attached to a white pickup truck.
Southbound lanes of I-75 were reopened Saturday night, but northbound traffic remained shut down for a period of time due to the severity of the fire and explosions.
Officials report no injuries in the incident.
