Tanker Truck Erupts In Flames, Closing Busy SoCal Freeway

MONTEBELLO (AP) — A disabled tanker truck that caught fire underneath a Southern California freeway overpass sent huge plumes of black smoke across the freeway, closing it to traffic in both directions.

The tanker erupted in flames about 12:10 on Highway 60 known as the Pomona Freeway in Montebello.

Firefighters sprayed foam on the truck, knocking down most of the flames about an hour after they erupted Wednesday at noon.

Traffic quickly backed up for miles, however.
The California Highway Patrol says the truck's driver and passenger both got out of the big rig safely.

The CHP says the section of Interstate 60, about 10 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, will remain closed for some time.
Montebello police also closed the overpass.

Drivers are urged to use the 10 Freeway as a detour and avoid the area entirely, CHP officials said.