A commercial vehicle carrying a load of paper caught fire on July 9 on Interstate 49 southbound near mile marker 110 near Lena, prompting a multi-agency emergency response and temporary traffic detours.

According to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, the fire was reported at approximately 12:47 p.m. Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies and Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District No. 1 responded to the scene.

Rapides Parish fire units based in Taylor Hill also responded to assist with the incident.

During the response, NPSO deputies diverted southbound traffic off I-49 at Exit 113 in Chopin to La. Highway 1. Motorists traveling through the area were advised to use caution due to a sharp curve approaching the Cane River Bridge near the RoyOMartin Plywood Plant.

Authorities reported no injuries.

As of 2 p.m., one southbound lane had reopened to traffic, though the scene remained active.

Photos were provided by Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District No. 1.

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