By Ryan Duey

A semi trailer carrying approximately 30,000 pounds of French fries was destroyed by fire early Tuesday morning on Interstate 70 in Geary County, with no injuries reported.

The blaze was reported around 1:38 a.m. on eastbound I-70, about 7 miles west of Junction City. David Cropper from New Philadelphia, Ohio, was driving the 2023 Kenworth semi trailer when he noticed the rear of his truck locking up. Upon pulling over, he discovered the rear tires were on fire.

The trailer was completely destroyed despite efforts from Dickinson County Fire District 1 and Grandview Plaza assisting with water support. Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges estimated approximately $80,000 in total loss.