Three cars burst into flames in Boston’s Ted Williams Tunnel following a crash on Friday afternoon. The incident unfolded shortly after 4 p.m. on the HOV ramp from I-93 north to I-90 east.
Witnesses recounted hearing several loud bangs followed by a frantic rush of people fleeing the tunnel. Amidst the chaos, debris from the collision fell onto one witness’s car.
Boston firefighters acted swiftly, extinguishing two of the burning vehicles with efficiency. However, the third, a hybrid, proved more challenging to put out. Emergency services, including Boston EMS, responded promptly, transporting three individuals to the hospital for treatment. Additionally, several others received medical attention for smoke inhalation.
Michael Cram, present inside the tunnel during the ordeal, described the initial apprehension for everyone’s safety as flames and smoke engulfed the area. Drivers collaborated to aid the arrival of first responders, working together to maneuver cars and create space.
Following the incident, the charred vehicles were removed from the tunnel and transported to a nearby state police barracks for further evaluation. The aftermath of the fire led to the closure of the HOV eastbound ramp and the Frontage Road ramp for nearly six hours, causing disruptions to holiday weekend travel.
However, by 10 p.m., all debris had been cleared, and the ramps were reopened, though noticeable damage to lights, wall tiles, and pavement remained in the ramp area. Authorities confirmed the road’s safety for travel, assuring that repairs would be addressed at a later date.