Interstate 15 in Hesperia, California Closes After Bridge Fire

Caltrans is urging motorists to avoid a stretch of Interstate 15 after a fire destroyed an under-construction bridge near the Cajon Pass and closed all lanes to traffic.

 

The bridge is near Hesperia, California, on the main route between Southern California and Las Vegas. The freeway has been closed since about 1:30 p.m. Monday.

 

San Bernardino County Fire Capt. Josh Wilkins says a blowtorch being used by a construction worker ignited the wooden support structure of an overpass that was under construction.

 

Wilkins said the Cajon Pass will be "a nightmare for the next 24 to 48 hours at least."

 

Dozens of firefighters were battling the blaze in windy conditions, with limited access to water.

 

One worker suffered from smoke inhalation.  (AP)