Tractor Trailer Fire on I-90 in Newstead Causes Major Traffic Delays, No Injuries Reported
On June 27, 2025, at approximately 7:54 p.m., New York State Police and local fire departments responded to a tractor trailer fire on I-90 westbound near mile marker 410.5 in Newstead, NY. The incident involved a tractor trailer hauling plastic foam board, driven by Mohamed G. Salad, 66, of Ontario, Canada. A suspected brake malfunction or failure caused the trailer to ignite, prompting Salad to safely pull over onto the shoulder.
Both westbound lanes were immediately closed, leading to an initial traffic backup extending approximately three miles. Emergency crews worked swiftly to extinguish the fire, and by 9:10 p.m., the flames were under control, allowing the left lane to re-open. However, the traffic buildup had grown to approximately five miles, causing significant congestion. Cleanup operations and the removal of the trailer were completed shortly after 1:30 a.m., at which point all lanes were fully re-opened.
Authorities noted that a full traffic diversion was unnecessary thanks to the rapid and coordinated response from the local fire department and state police. Though the burning cargo of plastic foam board raised potential environmental concerns due to the possible release of toxic fumes, no hazardous material warnings or community impact alerts were issued. The prompt actions of the emergency services helped prevent injuries and minimized disruptions.
This incident underscores the critical importance of regular vehicle maintenance for commercial transports and the effectiveness of coordinated emergency responses in managing highway incidents while ensuring public safety.
