ST. GEORGE — A semitractor-trailer hauling a load of candles erupted into flames on Interstate 15 in Iron County on Friday morning, critically injuring the driver, who was airlifted to an area hospital.
Shortly after 6:30 a.m., officers and emergency personnel were dispatched to a vehicle fire involving a semi that was fully involved in flames on the southbound side of I-15.
Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Cameron Roden told St. George News the semi, which was hauling a load of candles, was pulled off the shoulder of the I-15 on-ramp about 14 miles south of Beaver when emergency personnel arrived. He said a witness reported that the fire appeared to have started in the engine compartment and "quickly spread to the entire truck," including the trailer.
The driver was critically injured and flown to an area hospital for evaluation and treatment, Roden said.
