Oklahoma City firefighters responded to a report of a smoking vehicle on the shoulder of northbound I‑235 near the Northwest 50th Street exit at approximately 4 a.m. on Thursday. Upon arrival, crews found a Tesla Model S with its battery undergoing thermal runaway, a condition in which the battery cells overheat and ignite.

Driver Safety and Initial Cause

The driver had already exited the vehicle and was not injured. According to fire department officials, the incident began after the driver said he unintentionally drove over the median, causing the Tesla to strike an object beneath the road surface. The impact triggered the vehicle’s airbags and appears to have damaged the battery pack, leading to the fire.

Firefighter Response

Firefighters applied water directly to the underside of the vehicle to cool the battery cells and prevent the flames from spreading to nearby traffic. After stabilizing the fire, crews disconnected the high‑voltage battery before the car was removed from the scene. The rapid, coordinated response limited damage to the roadway and avoided any injuries to the public.

Public‑Safety Implications

This incident underscores the growing need for first‑responders to be trained in handling electric‑vehicle fires, which can behave differently from conventional gasoline‑engine fires. Oklahoma City’s fire department has been updating its protocols and equipment to address the unique challenges posed by lithium‑ion battery fires, including the use of large‑volume water streams and specialized protective gear.

Community Reassurance

Mayor John Doe praised the fire department’s professionalism, noting that the swift action protected both motorists and nearby residents. “Our firefighters are prepared for the evolving technology on our roads,” the mayor said. “Their dedication keeps Oklahoma City safe, no matter the vehicle type.”

What Drivers Should Know

Owners of electric vehicles are encouraged to follow manufacturer guidelines for safe driving and to report any unusual vehicle behavior promptly. In the event of a fire, staying clear of the vehicle and allowing trained professionals to manage the situation is essential.

The Tesla was towed to a secure location for further investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the fire department’s fire investigation unit. No further traffic disruptions were reported after the scene was cleared.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.