A semi tractor trailer caught fire on Mt. Springs Grade Friday.

The big rig was coming down the grade on Interstate 8 at abut 3:00 p.m. when the brakes caught fire. The fie spread to the trailer and the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. The driver and another person were injured by debris from exploding tires. The semi continued to burn, blocking both eastbound lanes just west of Ocotillo. Imperial County Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire. Traffic was backed up to In-Ko-Pah until one lane was opened up. Crews worked to empty the cargo from the burned trailer before they could tow the big rig and clear the highway. The freeway was fully reopened at about 8:15 p.m. CalTrans reported that there is damage to the roadway that will have to be repaired.