Tractor trailer goes up in flames on I-75, closes interstate for over an hour

A tractor-trailer was destroyed after it burned Wednesday in a fire on I-75. Investigators say the blaze was sparked by a blown tire.

According to a release sent by Kentucky State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Public Affairs Officer Steven Douglas, the 2007 Peterbilt tractor-trailer, driven by Michael Friend, 47, of Hancock, W.Va., was transporting materials used in welding when it caught fire about 10:30 a.m. near mile marker 18 on I-75 in Corbin.

Douglas said the southbound lanes of the interstate were closed for more than an hour while crews cleaned up debris. 

Assisting at the scene were CVE Officer Mike McQueen, Oak Grove Fire and 3-Point Volunteer Fire Departments. Officer Randy Rader continues the investigation.