Charter Bus Catches Fire on I-85

BUFORD, GA — A charter bus caught fire on Interstate 85 during rush hour on Friday, shutting down southbound lanes of the highway while the fire was brought under control.

Gwinnett County firefighters responded at 5:36 p.m. to a report of a fire just south of the Gravel Springs overpass in Buford.

The damaged bus -- one of three that were traveling together -- had flames showing from the rear of the vehicle.

Firefighters were able to deploy hose lines and quickly get the fire under control.

There were 48 people on the bus when the fire erupted. All were safely evacuated before the fire department arrived and there were no injuries reported. Passengers were put on the other two buses and were able to continue their trip.

All southbound lanes of I-85 were initially closed as firefighters worked to put out the blaze. Some lanes were reopened a short time later.

Fire officials say there was no traffic accident that caused the fire. The fire appears to have started at the rear of the bus, in the engine compartment or tire well, officials say.

The blaze caused heavy damage to the bus.

(Photo courtesy Gwinnett County Fire & Emergency Services)