KYTC: I-75 Northbound Exit 15 on-ramp in Whitley County closed after commercial vehicle fire

A commercial vehicle fire led to a closure of the I-75 northbound Exit 15 on-ramp in Whitley County, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, prompting state transportation officials to warn drivers to expect delays and follow detours in the area.

WKYT reported the on-ramp closure was in effect on July 30, 2026. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said the closure was tied to the active fire response, indicating the ramp would remain closed until crews could secure the scene and address any hazards created by the blaze.

The affected location is on the northbound side of I-75 at Exit 15, where an on-ramp closure typically affects access for motorists trying to merge onto the interstate. Drivers traveling in the vicinity were directed to adjust routes and use alternate access points while responders worked.

State transportation officials generally close ramps during vehicle fires to protect the public from traffic conflicts and potential roadway or shoulder hazards, including debris, spilled fluids, and smoke. The Cabinet’s direction to close the on-ramp underscores that normal traffic flow is suspended during emergency operations.

Neither WKYT nor the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet statement summarized in the report provided further confirmed details on injuries, the extent of damage to the commercial vehicle, or the cause of the fire. Officials did not specify, in the reported account, an exact reopening time for the ramp.

Motorists are expected to monitor updates from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and local public-safety partners until the on-ramp is cleared for traffic. Once emergency responders determine the scene is safe, the closure can be lifted and traffic can resume normal routing at Exit 15.