Massive three-vehicle fire shuts down I-696 in Farmington Hills during Tuesday morning commute

Scene of a fire on I-696 on Jan. 7, 2025.
Scene of a fire on I-696 on Jan. 7, 2025. Photo credit Farmington Hills Fire Department

FARMINGTON HILLS (WWJ) -- A multi-vehicle crash and fire along eastbound I-696 caused major traffic issues in Oakland County Tuesday morning, but authorities say no one was hurt.

According to the Farmington Hills Fire Department, three cars caught fire after the crash at around 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 7, on the eastbound side of 696 near Halsted Rd.

696 fire
Photo credit Farmington Hills Fire Department

The eastbound lanes had to be shut down for a couple hours while firefighters put out the fire and cleaned up the freeway.

During the morning commute, backups were reported on I-696, I-275, I-96 and M-5 as a result.

Remarkably, there were no injuries, fire officials said.

"Please use this as a reminder to slow down and move over for any emergency vehicles working on the roadway," the Farmington Hills FD said, in a statement.

696 fire
Photo credit Farmington Hills Fire Department
696 fire
Photo credit Farmington Hills Fire Department

There are no details about circumstances leading to the crash, or who was at fault, as the investigation continues.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Farmington Hills Fire Department