Why was SR 87 closed? First responders rush to scene as motorists advised to take different routes

Phoenix, Arizona: State Route 87 was shut down in both directions at Gilbert Road due to a garbage truck fire, causing significant traffic delays in the area. Fire crews rushed to the scene and worked to contain the flames, as authorities urged drivers to find alternate routes.

The fire, which broke out earlier this evening, was handled by multiple fire agencies across the East Valley. The extent of the fire and its cause are still under investigation, and at the time of reporting the was no estimated time for when the road would be reopened.

Live footage from 12News who was on teh scene showed firefighters actively battling the blaze as smoke billows from the truck. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has advised that motorists avoid the area until the situation is resolved.