TAMPA, Fla. — A frightening scene unfolded on Interstate 275 Sunday afternoon when a charter bus suddenly caught fire near the downtown exits, sending smoke billowing over the highway and scattering debris across the lanes.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident began around 1:30 p.m. as the bus was traveling southbound. Troopers say a mechanical failure sparked the blaze, which quickly engulfed the vehicle.
The situation could have been much worse. As the bus burned, flying debris struck two other vehicles driving nearby. Despite the dramatic nature of the fire and the collision damage to nearby cars, officials confirmed that no injuries have been reported.
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Emergency crews are currently on the scene working to clear the charred wreckage and remove the obstruction.
Motorists traveling through the downtown area should expect significant delays as lanes remain blocked for cleanup.
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