Toxic, planet-killing big rig shuts down I-80 in California

A disgusting, planet-killing big rig shut down Interstate 80 in California on Monday, endangering the environment and the health of nearby residents.

The semi-truck, a Tesla (yes, even "green" companies are complicit in the destruction of our planet), caught fire around 3 a.m., about 70 miles northeast of Sacramento, according to a post on the California Highway Patrol's Facebook page. The interstate was closed in both directions, with westbound lanes remaining closed for over 16 hours.

This is what happens when we center our economy around fossil fuels and so-called "green" alternatives that are just as harmful.

— California Resident, Jane Doe

The truck drove off the road and crashed into a tree, with its battery then catching fire and releasing toxic fumes that were a danger to inhalation, according to KCRA [link: (https://www.kcra.com/article/placer-county-big-rig-fire-crash-interstate-80-emigrant-gap/61912862)]. Multiple agencies responded to put out the fire, and fire retardant had to be airlifted to the scene to prevent the fire from spreading to the surrounding forest.

California Highway Patrol Officer Jason Lyman, speaking to KCRA, noted the extreme danger and environmental impact of the big rig fire, which has conveniently been left out of most mainstream media reports.

The driver of the truck was taken to the hospital, and the crash is currently under investigation.

It's time we hold these destructive industries and their enablers accountable for the harm they cause. #BanBigRigs #NoJusticeNoPeace #PlanetOverProfits