18-wheeler tanker carrying liquid nitrogen caught fire on Beltway 8

HOUSTON - A liquid nitrogen leak coming from a vehicle following a truck fire has shut down Beltway 8 West, according to officials.

18-wheeler tanker fire

What we know:

Houston Fire Department Senior Captain Raul Reyes says units were called to an 18-wheeler on fire near beltway 8 and Beechnut Street.

The truck was carrying a chemical tanker with liquid nitrogen.

Firefighters were able to put the fire out and HAZMAT crews were at the scene to continue monitoring the fire.

According to Capt. Reyes, the owners of the company were called to the scene to try offloading the liquid nitrogen into another tanker.

Officials said the truck driver wasn't injured in the fire. 

It appears the fire started near the brakes of the truck. There was no crash or accident, says Capt. Reyes.

Drivers are urged to avoid the area while crews remain on the scene.

There is no immediate risk to public health or residents nearby.

What we don't know:

The cause of the truck fire is unknown.