PLACER COUNTY, California — Multiple cattle were killed after a brake fire broke out on a livestock trailer traveling along westbound Interstate 80 near Alta on Monday evening.

CAL FIRE/Placer County Fire Department crews were dispatched just after 5 p.m. on February 9, 2026, for a reported commercial vehicle fire. While units were en route, additional information indicated the vehicle involved was a cattle truck.

Engine 2383 arrived on scene and reported a working brake fire on the passenger side of the livestock trailer near the rear axle. The truck was transporting 49 cattle at the time, with several animals already severely burned or injured.

Firefighters quickly knocked down the flames, preventing the fire from spreading further and limiting additional injuries to the livestock. Despite their efforts, multiple cattle succumbed to their injuries.

No injuries were reported for the truck driver.

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