NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Around 3:00 p.m. Monday, Nashville Fire Department crews were working to extinguish a semi-truck fire near exit 240A and I-40 W.
Officials say the truck was carrying radioactive waste isolated in its packaging — meaning there is no longer an immediate threat — but the process of clearing the area took much longer.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation says I-40 East has repoened, and Westbound traffic along I-40 has reopened as well.
Westbound traffic on I40 has reopened.
— Nashville Fire Dept (@NashvilleFD) February 5, 2024
NFD crews have all gone through the decontamination process and the scene is being turned over to @myTDOT @THPNashville and @TennesseeEMA No readings were found indicating any levels of any hazards present. pic.twitter.com/rvWaAQRky3
NFD says they worked to cover areas of the semi truck with tarp and move it about 300 feet to clear the lane. Tennessee Highway Patrol, commercial inspectors and the shipping company came to inspect and make sure the truck is safe to continue travel from the scene once it is moved.

“I’ve never met anyone like Tennie.”
That’s how one neighbor at Stones River Manor in Murfreesboro describes Tennie Fitzpatrick, who has mastered as many as seven different musical instruments. Each day, Tennie shares those talents with residents, workers and visitors. It’s an ability Tennie herself believes is “a gift from God.” That’s because Tennie is blind, and overcame a difficult, abusive childhood. Forrest Sanders shares this truly inspirational story.
- Rhori Johnston