Chase County Fire Chief Steve Fillmore says at least four cattle died as the result of a fire east of Matfield Green on Tuesday.
Firefighters from the Matfield Green and Chase County fire departments responded to the Kansas Turnpike mile marker 109 southbound, about three miles southwest of the Flint Hills cattle pens, before asking Emporia to respond as mutual aid around 12:30 pm. Fillmore tells KVOE News the fire apparently developed near the tractor unit’s rear wheels on the passenger side, eventually shifting to the front of the trailer. Firefighters contained the fire before it moved further towards the back of the trailer.
There were over 30 cattle on board at the time of the fire. The cattle that died were apparently at or near the front of the trailer. The conditions of the surviving cattle are unclear at this time.
The cause is under investigation.
2:30 pm Tuesday: Investigation underway after cattle truck fire in Chase County
Additional details are expected after fire damaged a cattle-hauling semi and part of its trailer Tuesday.
Fire developed as the semi was traveling southbound on the Kansas Turnpike about three miles past the Flint Hills cattle pens exit and nearly 20 miles southwest of Emporia. Early indications were the fire started in the semi’s tractor unit and spread towards the trailer, which contained a load of cattle. There was apparent damage to the axle area and the front of the trailer, according to Emporia Fire Capt. Ryan Schmidt, but the fire was put out before the whole trailer was engulfed.
There is no word yet on whether any cattle were killed or injured. No injuries to humans were reported. Chase County and Matfield Green firefighters helped to get the fire out. Emporia Fire was called out as mutual aid but was released as it arrived on scene.
1 pm Tuesday: Fire reported in cattle truck semi southwest of Emporia
Emporia Fire has been called as mutual aid for a semi fire in Chase County.
The fire was reported shortly after 12:30 pm on the Kansas Turnpike at mile marker 109, about three miles southwest of the Flint Hills cattle pens exit and almost 20 miles southwest of the Emporia tollgate. Early indications are the fire was in the semi’s tractor unit but was spreading towards a load of cattle. Chase County Fire has requested additional units to help with this incident.
Further updates are coming on KVOE, KVOE.com and KVOE social media.
