Urgent Fire Erupts on I-35 Near Blackson Ave.; Service Road Closed

BREAKING: A major fire has erupted along Interstate 35 near Blackson Ave. in Austin, with flames and thick smoke visible from the highway. The Austin Fire Department is actively responding to this urgent incident that began on the evening of July 15, 2025. As firefighters arrived, they reported that 50% of the building was engulfed in flames.

The fire has led to the closure of the 7400 block of the I-35 service road, causing significant traffic disruptions as crews work to contain the blaze. Eyewitnesses reported seeing fire plumes from the highway, with one Reddit user sharing a video of the scene around 7 p.m.. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with officials yet to provide further details.

This incident comes on the heels of a previous fire that engulfed a vacant hotel and restaurant — formerly known as Aster’s Ethiopian Restaurant — located just a short distance down the road. As authorities continue to assess the situation, residents and commuters are urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The Austin Fire Department is expected to provide more information shortly, and the community is on high alert as firefighters battle the flames. This urgent situation underscores the importance of fire safety and response preparedness in the region.

Given the potential impact on traffic and safety, local officials are encouraging everyone to stay informed and follow any directives from emergency responders.