A commercial vehicle fire temporarily impacted traffic on Interstate 49 Southbound near Mile Marker 137 late on the evening of June 21 near Natchitoches, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

At approximately 9:39 p.m., Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, along with Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #5, Natchitoches Haz-Mat Units, the Natchitoches Police Department, and mutual aid from Fire Protection District #6, responded to a reported commercial vehicle fire in the southbound lanes.

Deputies reported that the driver, who was not injured, was hauling a load of milk at the time of the incident. The driver was able to detach the trailer, though it sustained damage during the fire.

Authorities confirmed the scene remained active as crews worked to contain the fire and manage traffic. Motorists were advised of potential delays while emergency responders operated in the area.

By 10:37 p.m., officials reported that the fire had been contained and that all lanes were expected to reopen within 35–45 minutes. At 11:08 p.m., the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office confirmed that all lanes had reopened.

Louisiana State Police Troop E and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development were also notified of the incident. Deputies T. Hortman and A. Cheng responded on behalf of the NPSO.