CEDAR CITY — A travel trailer fire possibly caused by a mechanical failure closed southbound Interstate 15 lanes Sunday afternoon.
At approximately 2:18 p.m., a Ford pickup truck was pulling a Jayco fifth-wheel trailer, which caught fire near mile marker 84, Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Cameron Roden told Cedar City News.
Troopers at the scene said the vehicle was carrying two people, and Roden said it appeared they exited safely. While the cause is still under investigation, the fire may have resulted from a mechanical issue.
Roden said the truck didn’t appear to sustain any damage, while the trailer sustained more than $2,500 in damages. A more specific estimate was not available.
Southbound lanes were fully closed for approximately 15-20 minutes before the left lane reopened. The scene was fully cleared within a few hours, according to UHP, Roden said.
Southern Utahns should inspect their vehicles before hitting the road to ensure tires are properly inflated, service is up to date and that the vehicle isn’t dragging chains, Roden said. Chains drag when they’re not connected correctly or are too low.
“People may not be aware of an issue,” he said. “So, like the fifth-wheel trailer, we may not fully know what caused the actual fire, but I think regular inspections and regular service could help prevent most of them.”
The Paragonah Fire Department also responded to the scene.
This report is based on statements from court records, police or other responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.
Cedar City News reporter Jeff Richards contributed to this report.
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