Trucking News · Washington · November 1, 2026

Trucker Hauling Bananas Disconnects the Cab From a Trailer Fire on I-5 in Tacoma, Troopers Say

By Big Rig Daily Staff

A trucker kept calm and kept safe when a trailer caught fire on Interstate 5 in Tacoma. According to a report by ATruckDrivers citing the Washington State Patrol (WSP), the fire broke out around 5:20 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, on northbound I-5 near the Puyallup River Bridge.

What happened

The fire started in the rear of the trailer, which was loaded with bananas. The driver disconnected the cab from the trailer and pulled away. No one was hurt, according to the report.

The road

The three right lanes of northbound I-5 were blocked for hours while crews dealt with the trailer.

The cause

WSP said the fire may have started in the trailer's brakes, but troopers said it is too early for an official cause. Big Rig Daily is not speculating beyond what officials have said.

Why the lanes stayed closed

The three right lanes were blocked for hours, which shows how long a trailer fire can tie up a busy interstate even when no one is hurt. The report did not say how the trailer and its load were removed or when the lanes reopened, and Big Rig Daily is not guessing. It also did not say whether the cab was damaged. The sources reviewed did not name the driver or give a company name.

Why a brake check matters

Hot brakes and tires are a known concern for truckers. Big Rig Daily has covered overheated brake drums found after a motorist's tip in Iowa and a report on thermal imaging used to spot flat tires in Kentucky. The pre-trip inspection checklist covers a walk-around check, and the semi truck breakdown checklist covers what to do in a roadside emergency.

Quick facts

• When: about 5:20 a.m., Friday, Oct. 30, 2026.
• Where: northbound I-5 near the Puyallup River Bridge, Tacoma, Washington.
• Cargo: bananas.
• Injuries: none reported.
• Lanes: the three right lanes were blocked for hours.
• Cause: not yet determined; WSP says it may have started in the brakes.

FAQ

Was anyone hurt in the I-5 trailer fire in Tacoma?

No. The driver disconnected the cab and pulled away, according to the report.

What caused the I-5 banana truck fire in Tacoma?

Troopers say it may have started in the trailer's brakes, but it is too early for an official cause.

How long were I-5 lanes closed after the Tacoma trailer fire?

The three right lanes were blocked for hours.

A question for readers

When did you last check your trailer brakes after a long downhill run?

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