Bridge closure expected to cramp I-15 Freeway travel at Cajon Pass

Officials warned commuters Tuesday to avoid Interstate 15 Freeway in the Cajon Pass as crews continue to demolish a bridge overpass that caught fire and partially collapsed.

Soon after the fire Monday, state transportation officials said the roadway -- the main route from Southern California to Las Vegas -- would be closed for up two days while workers remove the rubble from its lanes.

Construction crews used tractors and bulldozers to tear down the Ranchero Road overpass, even as it continued to burn into the night, the San Bernardino County Fire Department said.

The blaze, reported around 1:30 p.m., was sparked by workers cutting reinforced steel bars with torches, the Fire Department said.

One person was treated for smoke inhalation in connection with the fire, KTLA reported.

With the roadway closed, motorists were advised to use alternative routes, including California highways 138 and 18.

“If you do know alternate routes, you should take those routes,” said Fire Department spokeswoman Tracey Martinez.

A SigAlert remained in effect Tuesday morning as traffic on both sides of the roadway was diverted at Ranchero Road. Even before 5:30 a.m., the southbound drive was slammed from Main Street, while the northbound side was heavy from Highway 138.