Photo: Chattanooga Fire Department
A trailer loaded with fireworks erupted in flames on Interstate 75 near the Ooltewah exit in Hamilton County, Tennessee, Saturday night, forcing officials to shut down both northbound and southbound lanes as fireworks exploded over the highway. Video footage shared by viewers and the Chattanooga Fire Department captured dramatic scenes of pyrotechnics shooting into the night sky while emergency crews worked to contain the blaze.
According to the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department, all fireworks aboard the trailer ignited during the fire, sending explosions in multiple directions and endangering drivers. Multiple agencies—including the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department, Chattanooga Fire Department, Catoosa County, and Highway 58 fire departments—responded to the scene and shuttled water to firefighters via the temporarily closed highway.
No injuries were reported, according to fire department officials. Authorities said the cause of the fire remains unknown at this time. The southbound side of Interstate 75 reopened relatively quickly, while northbound lanes remained closed as hot spots were monitored and the burned trailer was cleared from the roadway. Cleanup continued overnight, and the interstate was fully reopened after all debris was removed.
Officials continue to investigate the cause of the fire. No further details have been released.