Detroit, MI, December 18, 2025
A vehicle fire early Wednesday closed eastbound I-94 near 8 Mile Road for hours, leading to major traffic delays in Detroit. First responders worked at the scene where a body was recovered. The Michigan Department of Transportation is managing the incident and advising motorists to find alternate routes.
Detroit, MI – Vehicle Fire Closes Eastbound I-94 Near 8 Mile Road
Detroit, MI – A vehicle fire early Wednesday morning led to the closure of eastbound I-94 near 8 Mile Road for several hours, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area.
Incident Details
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) reported the freeway closure just after 1:30 a.m. on December 17, 2025. Eastbound I-94 was closed from 8 Mile to 9 Mile Road, with traffic being diverted as far as 8 Mile and 9 Mile Road. First responders were observed removing a body from the vehicle at the scene. As of 5:45 a.m., the freeway remained closed. The incident is under investigation, and further details are awaited.
Impact on Traffic
The closure of eastbound I-94 near 8 Mile Road resulted in significant traffic disruptions during the early morning hours. Commuters and travelers were advised to seek alternative routes to avoid delays. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) provided updates on the situation and worked to reopen the freeway as quickly as possible.
Background
Interstate 94 (I-94) is a major east-west highway that runs through Detroit, Michigan, serving as a primary route for commuters and freight traffic. Vehicle fires on I-94 have previously led to significant traffic disruptions. For instance, a semi-truck fire in Chelsea, Michigan, in August 2025 resulted in the closure of westbound I-94 near Dancer Road.
Safety Reminders
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of safe driving practices, especially during adverse conditions. Drivers are urged to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, adhere to speed limits, and remain vigilant to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
Related Incidents
In addition to the vehicle fire on I-94 near 8 Mile Road, other recent incidents have affected traffic in the Detroit area. A fatal crash on westbound I-94 in Taylor, Michigan, on December 16, 2025, resulted in the closure of the freeway and the loss of two lives.
Motorists are advised to stay informed about road conditions and plan their routes accordingly to avoid delays and ensure safety on the roads.
FAQ
What caused the closure of eastbound I-94 near 8 Mile Road?
The closure was due to a vehicle fire that occurred early Wednesday morning, leading to significant traffic disruptions in the area.
How long was the freeway closed?
The freeway was closed for several hours, with updates provided by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) as they worked to reopen the roadway.
Were there any injuries or fatalities reported?
First responders were observed removing a body from the vehicle at the scene, indicating a fatality. Further details are awaited as the incident is under investigation.
What other incidents have affected traffic in the Detroit area recently?
In addition to the vehicle fire on I-94 near 8 Mile Road, a fatal crash on westbound I-94 in Taylor, Michigan, on December 16, 2025, resulted in the closure of the freeway and the loss of two lives.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Vehicle fire on eastbound I-94 near 8 Mile Road |
| Location | Detroit, MI |
| Date and Time | December 17, 2025, early morning hours |
| Impact | Closure of eastbound I-94 from 8 Mile to 9 Mile Road; significant traffic disruptions |
| Response | Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and first responders worked to reopen the freeway |
| Related Incidents | Fatal crash on westbound I-94 in Taylor, Michigan, on December 16, 2025, resulting in two fatalities |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
