OmniRide Bus Fire On I-95 Originates From Flat Tire, Bus A Total Loss

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — A passengerless OmniRide bus caught fire Tuesday on Interstate 95. The bus service linked the fire to a flat tire.

The fire happened around 3:45 p.m. Tuesday on northbound Interstate 95. OmniRidge, which provides commuter and local bus services, said OmniRide coach #3005 had dropped off passengers in Spotsylvania County and was heading back to D.C. The bus had a flat tire, leading the driver to pull over and alert dispatch.

According to OmniRide, the tire became wrapped around the axle and started to emit smoke. Fire had expanded into the coach area of the bus before the fire department arrived. The fire caused a total loss of the bus. There were no passengers aboard.

OmniRide, the bus service part of the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission, said its contractor Keolis is "taking extended corrective action." The bus service assured passengers its bus fleet is safe.

"We have reviewed the preventive maintenance records, including tire records, along with the most recent state vehicle inspection which occurred in January 2025," OmniRide said in a statement. "The vehicle was safe and in proper working order when it incurred the flat tire, which occasionally happens during service."

There is an ongoing investigation involving Virginia highway patrol and Prince William County Fire and Rescue.

"OmniRide thanks the first responders who arrived within minutes and worked so hard to minimize the impact," OmniRide said. "We sincerely apologize for the negative impact this had on our passengers’ afternoon commute."