Three cars caught fire in the Ted Williams Tunnel in Boston Friday afternoon, resulting in three people being taken to the hospital. The incident occurred shortly after 4 p.m., prompting Boston firefighters to rush to the scene of the two-alarm fire. Smoke could be seen coming out of one end of the tunnel, and photos from inside showed vehicles engulfed in flames. The fire originated on the ramp from I-93 to the Massachusetts Pike heading east.
Accessing the tunnel proved to be a challenge for firefighters initially, but they managed to quickly get water on the fire once they gained entry. Out of the six people inside the three cars, those taken to the hospital suffered only minor injuries, according to a firefighter at the scene. Some drivers abandoned their cars and evacuated the tunnel as thick black smoke filled the area.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) closed the eastbound high-occupancy vehicle ramp and the frontage road leading into the tunnel as a result of the incident. Traffic congestion was observed on the Massachusetts Pike heading into the city, with a few fire trucks stationed at the D Street exit of the tunnel.
Eyewitnesses inside the tunnel expressed alarm at the situation, with one person captured on video saying, “It’s blowing up. The car’s going to explode.” A charred car was later towed away from the scene as authorities worked to clear the area.
As of 6:30 p.m., no further information was available about the incident. This developing news story advises individuals to stay tuned to 7NEWS for updates.
Vehicle fires pose a significant danger on roadways, and incidents like this highlight the importance of being prepared and knowing how to react in such situations. It is crucial for drivers to prioritize their safety and that of their passengers by promptly exiting a vehicle if it catches fire. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends pulling over to a safe location away from traffic, turning off the engine, and ensuring all occupants evacuate the vehicle at a safe distance.
In the event of a vehicle fire, it is vital to contact emergency services immediately and provide them with accurate information about the location and nature of the incident. Firefighters are trained to handle these situations and will work diligently to extinguish the flames and prevent further damage or injuries.
While the specific cause of the fire in the Ted Williams Tunnel remains unknown, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with accidents and vehicle fires. Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking for any signs of electrical or mechanical issues, can help reduce the chances of such incidents occurring. Additionally, drivers should be cautious while driving and adhere to traffic rules and regulations to minimize the risk of accidents.
In conclusion, the incident in the Ted Williams Tunnel underscores the importance of fire safety awareness and preparedness on the road. By staying vigilant, practicing safe driving habits, and knowing how to respond in emergencies, individuals can help ensure their own safety and that of others on the road.
