Hay Truck Fire Blocks Ventura Boulevard, 101 Freeway, No Injuries

A flatbed truck carrying hay caught fire on the northbound 405 Freeway connector, plunging commuters into a traffic nightmare on Monday, December 8, 2025.

Incident Details

The blaze erupted around 3:50 p.m. on the northbound 405 Freeway connector that leads to the east‑bound and west‑bound 101 Freeway. The vehicle was fully engulfed in flames when the first report reached authorities. Fire crews fought the fire until it was extinguished, but the blaze released large volumes of smoke that created hazardous driving conditions.

Traffic Impact

Evening commuters traveling through the San Fernando Valley via the 101 and 405 freeways were forced to endure significant delays. The fire blocked the two lanes of the connector at Ventura Boulevard, prompting the California Highway Patrol to shut down the northbound 101 Freeway at that intersection.

CHP Response

The California Highway Patrol, which issued the closure notice, later reopened all affected ramps and roads at 9:17 p.m. The closure had a pronounced effect on traffic flow, but the prompt response minimized further disruption.

Outcome

No injuries were reported in the incident. The cause of the fire remains unclear. A video of the incident was broadcast during the NBC4 News at 6 p.m. on Monday, December 8, 2025, providing viewers with a visual account of the event.

Key Takeaways

• A hay‑laden flatbed truck ignited on the 405 Freeway connector at 3:50 p.m.
• The fire blocked two lanes of the Ventura Boulevard connector, shutting down the northbound 101 Freeway.
• CHP reopened all affected roads at 9:17 p.m.; no injuries were reported.

The incident underscores how a single vehicle fire can ripple through a busy freeway network, highlighting the importance of swift emergency response and clear communication to motorists.