Truck Fire Slows Traffic on I-20 in Aiken County

Blaze sends black smoke into the air, causing delays on the interstate.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A truck fire on Interstate 20 in Aiken County, South Carolina caused traffic delays and sent black smoke billowing into the air on Monday around noon. The initial call reported flames on the underside of the truck, which quickly escalated into the vehicle being fully engulfed in flames.

Why it matters

Truck fires on major highways can pose serious risks to public safety and cause significant traffic disruptions, impacting commuters and commerce. This incident highlights the importance of vehicle maintenance and safety protocols to prevent such incidents.

The details

The truck fire was reported shortly before noon on the eastbound side of I-20 near mile marker 14 in Aiken County. Within minutes, the entire truck was ablaze, sending thick black smoke into the air. Traffic monitoring showed a slowdown in the area as emergency responders worked to extinguish the fire and clear the scene.

  • The initial call about the truck fire came shortly before noon on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The players

South Carolina Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for monitoring and managing traffic conditions on South Carolina's roadways.

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What’s next

Authorities will investigate the cause of the truck fire and ensure the roadway is cleared and safe for traffic to resume normal flow.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and safety protocols to prevent such disruptive and potentially dangerous events on major highways.