Semi-Truck Catches Fire in Downtown Salem

High Street has re-opened between Ferry Street and Church Street in downtown Salem.

Salem Firefighters and Salem Police say those traveling on High Street in downtown Salem, should expect delays and closures as crews remove a semi truck that caught fire earlier this afternoon.

(SALEM, Ore. ) - Salem Firefighters and Salem Police had a rare situation on their hands Saturday afternoon.

A semi truck caught fire on High Street in downtown Salem blocking all lanes of traffic.

The driver, Eric Lang, told Salem-News.com that he had just finished making a delivery and was headed to his next destination when he smelled smoke. He said that he jumped out of the cab over flames and escaped without injury and was able to call for help.

Salem firefighters were able to get the fire out quickly, which was fortunate, because the driver had just filled up with diesel.

High Street between Ferry Street and Church Street in downtown Salem was closed for a few hours while crews removed the truck.

Delays could still be possible in the area as crews work to safely remove a pool of diesel from the truck off the roadway.

Video from the scene from Salem-News.com's Jerry Freeman: