Load of Hay Catches Fire While Driving on US 77

A 18-wheeler load of hay caught on fire while traveling on US 77 north of La Grange Tuesday afternoon.

According to a report from the Fayette County Sheriff's Office, a 911 call came in around 12:45 p.m. reporting the fire. The caller said an 18-wheeler hauling a load of round hay bales was on fire and heading north on US 77 just past the FM 153 intersection.

Pct. 1 Constable Billy Roensch located the rig and pulled it over. La Grange Volunteer Fire Department responded, along with Deputy Darrell Maze and Sgt. Charles Jobb of the Sheriff's Office. La Grange VFD called for assistance from Winchester Volunteer Fire Department, who also responded. 

The rig was loaded with 36 hay bales and several were burning. The driver of the rig disconnected from the trailer and pulled the tractor away. Firefighters battled the blaze for about an hour before getting it under control. The highway was shut down during that time.

Fayette County EMS also responded to provide rehab for firefighters due to the heat.

Investigators think the hay ignited because it was too green when it was baled, according to Lt. David Beyer of the Sheriff's Office. Hay that has not been dried long enough can create enough heat inside the bale to start a fire.