PARLEYS CANYON, Utah — A vehicle fire erupted in Parleys Canyon early Monday morning, causing significant delays for travelers and commuters on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The incident began shortly after 8 a.m. when a vehicle traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 caught fire, leading to a swift response from emergency services and creating a traffic snarl that affected hundreds of motorists. Witnesses reported seeing flames engulf the vehicle, which was situated in the right lane of the busy freeway. The fire quickly spread, blocking not only the right lane but also two additional lanes and the shoulder, effectively halting traffic in both directions as first responders worked to control the situation. Eyewitness accounts described thick, black smoke billowing from the vehicle, which drew the attention of nearby drivers and prompted several to stop and assist. According to the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP), first responders arrived on the scene within minutes. Firefighters from the Salt Lake City Fire Department were able to extinguish the flames, but not before the vehicle was completely destroyed. The UHP confirmed that the fire was intense enough to generate considerable smoke, which further complicated visibility for drivers in the area. As the fire was being extinguished, traffic began to back up significantly. Commuters and holiday travelers alike faced delays, with some reporting that they were stuck in traffic for over an hour. Many took to social media to express their frustration, sharing images and updates of the scene. One driver described the experience as “chaotic,” noting that an otherwise routine journey quickly turned into a frustrating standstill. By 10:45 a.m., the UHP announced that all lanes had been reopened to traffic, allowing vehicles to resume their journeys. However, the aftermath of the fire left behind a lingering impact on the holiday traffic. For many, the incident served as a stark reminder of the potential hazards on the road, particularly during busy travel days like MLK Day. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, the UHP has yet to release information concerning the cause of the fire or whether there were any injuries reported. Investigators are currently looking into the circumstances that led to the vehicle catching fire, although no further details have been disclosed as of now. Officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant, particularly during peak travel times when the likelihood of vehicle incidents can increase. “Road safety is paramount, especially on busy holidays,” said a representative from the UHP. “We encourage all drivers to maintain their vehicles and report any issues before hitting the road.” The vehicle fire in Parleys Canyon is part of a broader trend that raises questions about road safety and vehicle maintenance. As the winter months bring colder temperatures and harsher driving conditions, experts stress the importance of regular vehicle checks, including battery health, tire pressure, and fluid levels to prevent potential emergencies. Motorists are reminded to stay informed about the conditions on the roads, especially when planning travel during busy holiday weekends. The UHP maintains that timely updates and advisories can help mitigate risks and keep roadways safe for all travelers. As the community reflects on the events of MLK Day, the vehicle fire stands as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of travel, and the importance of preparedness and caution on the roads. In light of this incident, authorities are likely to reinforce their messaging about the need for road safety and vehicle maintenance, particularly as the winter months continue to pose challenges for drivers across Utah. As the investigation into the vehicle fire continues, UHP officials are expected to provide additional updates as more information becomes available. Travelers in the area are encouraged to stay alert and heed any advisories from local law enforcement to ensure a safe journey as the winter season progresses.