Severe Traffic Disruptions in Boston Following Electric Vehicle Blaze
An electric vehicle caught fire on the westbound lane of the Massachusetts Turnpike early Friday morning, leading to significant traffic disruptions across Boston. The incident took place shortly after 7 a.m., just past the Prudential Tunnel, as reported by Massachusetts State Police.
Details of the Incident
The driver of the Chevrolet electric vehicle conveyed to WBZ-TV that he suspected he had struck an object in the road, which subsequently resulted in the car igniting and later exploding. Emergency responders and firefighters were dispatched to the scene as the car became fully engulfed in flames.
As a precautionary measure, all lanes of the westbound Mass Pike were closed, causing congestion that backed up traffic as far as Logan Airport. The situation was exacerbated by debris on the roadway, which led to additional vehicles being damaged.
According to MassDOT, the highway remained shut down for over two hours before re-opening around 9:20 a.m. Tim McGuirk, a spokesperson for State Police, mentioned, “Boston Fire: advised that the electric vehicle fire would require several hours to extinguish. To ensure safety for all motorists and first responders, the roadway was completely closed off along with diverted traffic.”
City Traffic at a Standstill
As traffic intensified, motorists found themselves stuck in their vehicles. Many were seen outside, making phone calls or seeking alternatives, as the westbound Mass Pike turned into a virtual parking lot during the busy rush hour.
The surrounding areas, including Interstate 93 north and south—directly connecting to the Pike—also experienced delays. Traffic woes extended further to the Zakim Bridge and Storrow Drive as drivers sought alternate routes to navigate their way around the gridlock.
The disruption affected not only drivers on the Mass Pike but also riders on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Red Line. Shuttle buses, which were deployed due to ongoing construction on part of the subway, added to the congestion.
Impact on Traffic Conditions
Traffic maps highlighted severe delays across various parts of Boston, with the routes surrounding the incident displayed in a sea of red due to increased traffic volume. The following table summarizes the impact of the breach on the city’s transportation system:
| Affected Area | Traffic Condition |
|---|---|
| Mass Pike Westbound | Closed, backups to Logan Airport |
| I-93 North & South | Heavy delays |
| Zakim Bridge | Increased congestion |
| Storrow Drive | Slow traffic |
Concerns Surrounding Electric Vehicle Fires
There hasn’t been an official comment regarding the cause of the fire from the authorities, but it has drawn attention to the dangers associated with electric vehicle fires, which can be particularly challenging for firefighters. In a 2023 investigation by WBZ-TV’s I-Team, it was highlighted that electric car batteries are difficult to extinguish due to their unique properties. In fact, a device was designed by a retired firefighter to help combat these types of fires safely, as lithium batteries can continue to burn for extended periods, sometimes lasting up to 24 hours.
As investigations continue, updates will be provided. Fortunately, no serious injuries have been reported in connection to this incident, with authorities committed to ensuring public safety throughout the situation.
