Fiery Semi-Truck Crash on I-95 in Brevard County Leaves One Dead, Sparks Brush Fire and Evacuations

A devastating crash involving two large trucks on Interstate 95 in Brevard County turned deadly Thursday afternoon, igniting a brush fire and forcing evacuations as emergency crews responded to the intense scene.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) continues to investigate the fatal collision.

According to FHP, the crash occurred at approximately 2:25 p.m. Thursday near mile marker 232 north of Mims and involved a semi-truck with a trailer and a 2004 Volvo truck.

Investigators say the semi-truck overturned after colliding with the Volvo truck. Following the impact:

• The semi-truck struck the inside shoulder guardrail
• The vehicle overturned
• The truck became completely engulfed in flames

The driver of the semi-truck, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of family members, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver and passenger in the Volvo truck were not injured and remained at the scene to cooperate with investigators.

Crash Sparks Vegetation Fire and Emergency Evacuations

The intensity of the fiery crash ignited a brush fire in the area near Blounts Ridge and Aurantia roads, prompting an emergency response from Brevard County Fire Rescue.

Officials reported that:

• Flames spread quickly in nearby vegetation
• Two nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution
• Fire crews worked to contain the blaze while troopers secured the crash scene

The combined dangers of the crash and brush fire created a highly hazardous situation for motorists and nearby residents.

Major I-95 Closures and Traffic Gridlock

Authorities implemented a full closure of all northbound lanes of I-95 and the inside southbound lane while emergency crews worked to extinguish the fire, investigate the crash, and remove debris.

Motorists experienced significant delays as traffic remained at a standstill for hours.

Detour Information

FHP directed drivers traveling northbound on I-95 to follow this detour:

• Take Exit 231 to Deering Parkway (C.R. 5A)
• Turn left onto U.S. 1
• Turn left onto State Road 442 (Indian River Boulevard)
• Continue to reconnect with I-95

Drivers were advised to avoid the area and expect extended delays.

The Dangers of Commercial Truck Collisions on Florida Highways

Crashes involving large commercial trucks are often catastrophic due to the size and weight of these vehicles. When a semi-truck overturns or catches fire, the risk of fatal injuries and secondary hazards — such as explosions or fires — increases dramatically.

Some common factors in large truck crashes include:

• Driver fatigue
• Speeding or failure to slow in traffic
• Mechanical failures
• Improper lane changes or following too closely
• Poor roadway or weather conditions

When fires or hazardous cargo are involved, these crashes can also endanger nearby homes and motorists.

Potential Liability in Semi-Truck Accident Cases

Fatal truck crashes often require extensive investigation to determine whether negligence played a role.

Potentially liable parties may include:

• Truck drivers
• Trucking companies and employers
• Vehicle or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance providers
• Contractors responsible for cargo loading

Families who lose loved ones in commercial trucking crashes may be entitled to pursue wrongful death claims to recover compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the fatal semi-truck collision on I-95 in Brevard County to determine what led to the crash and whether any additional contributing factors were involved.

As authorities work to gather more information, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from serious highway collisions involving large commercial vehicles.