HALLORAN SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA — A semi-truck was fully engulfed in flames Sunday night after its fuel tank exploded on southbound Interstate 15 near Halloran Springs, prompting a large emergency response and major traffic delays, according to California Highway Patrol radio logs.

The incident was reported at approximately 8:13 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, near mile marker 147.20, south of Halloran Springs Road in San Bernardino County.

CHP logs described the situation as a “big rig” explosion involving a fuel tank, with the tractor-trailer quickly becoming fully engulfed. Tire debris was also reported burning in the middle of the freeway.

Officers described the vehicle as a reefer big rig, and CHP logs indicated the driver had been reported earlier for reckless driving, including speeds up to 90 mph, according to the report.

By about 8:43 p.m., Caltrans freeway cameras showed flames and smoke still rising from the scene. The San Bernardino County Fire Department requested an excavator to assist, though officials did not immediately specify why the heavy equipment was needed.

No details were immediately available about any occupants or injuries. The incident remains under investigation.

📸 Image(s) used under fair use for news reporting.