News Release

Tractor Trailer Fire on CA-190 within Death Valley National Park

The fire melted the hood and engine compartment to the chassis and the tires burned off. Travel by commercial trucks is not advised on CA-190 through Death Valley National Park.

NPS photo

News Release Date: June 23, 2025

Contact: Nichole Andler

DEATH VALLEY, Calif. – Early morning on June 19, a truck caught fire while descending Towne Pass on California Highway 190 within Death Valley National Park. The tractor trailer was traveling from Battle Mountain, NV, to Long Beach, CA. The tractor was destroyed by the fire. The driver protected the trailer by disconnecting it before the fire could spread. No injuries were reported.  
 
Park Rangers were the first on scene, but the National Park Service’s fire truck is out of the park for maintenance and inspection. Lone Pine Fire, Olancha Cartago Fire, and California Highway Patrol provided critical support. 
 
In 2024, six tractor trailers and one 5th wheel RV caught on fire on CA-190 within Death Valley National Park. Most of these incidents were caused by overheated brakes while descending steep grades. Commercial trucks are not advised on CA-190 through Death Valley National Park due to steep grades. Commercial trucks are prohibited on other roads within the park. 
 

-www.nps.gov/deva-