Southbound lanes of I-5 reopen after truck fire, hazardous materials response

This story has been updated to accurately reflect the most recent information.

Southbound Interstate 5 was closed Saturday near pole 192 at the OR 126-McKenzie intersection as hazardous materials crews responded to a diesel spill from a burning garbage truck.

Shortly after 2 p.m., authorities said one southbound lane had reopened, allowing traffic past the crash site, although they urged drivers to slow down and use caution.

The fire started when a garbage truck caught fire in the southbound lane above Franklin Blvd. Eugene Springfield Fire responded at 11:08 a.m. after dispatching Engine 4 from the 5th and Centennial station in Springfield, according to an ESF release.

The crew that arrived at the scene found that the car was completely engulfed in flames, and fuel was leaking from the disconnected diesel tank onto the roadway. The diesel spill was a concern due to its proximity to the Willamette River, prompting the ESF Emergency Response Team from the Valley River Station to assist.

The emergency response team worked with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), Oregon State Police (OSP) and Northwest Hazmat to contain the diesel leak while firefighters worked to extinguish the flames. In addition to the diesel, crews assessed the risk of hydraulic fluid and potentially hazardous waste in the debris.

Northbound drivers are advised to slow down and use caution as smoke from the fire may reduce visibility. Emergency crews were on the scene, and officials warned of delays expected to last in the area for several hours.

Authorities urged drivers to use alternate routes to avoid the area if possible.