Vehicle fire causes collapse of Interstate 95 in Philadelphia

Half of an elevated portion of highway gave way while related underground explosions ‘compromised’ remaining lanes

An elevated section of Interstate 95 collapsed early on Sunday in Philadelphia after a vehicle caught fire, closing the main north-south highway on the east coast and threatening to upend travel in parts of the densely populated north-east, authorities said.

Transportation officials warned of extensive delays and street closures and urged drivers to avoid the area. Early reports indicated that the vehicle may have been a tanker truck, but officials could not immediately confirm that. The fire was reported to be under control.