Firefighters with South Metro Fire Rescue responded to a fuel tanker on fire early Monday morning that caused business evacuations and a major road closure.

During the investigation, the driver of the vehicle was located deceased inside the truck, according to a release by the Englewood Police Department.

The identity of the driver is being withheld pending positive identification and notification of next of kin. The Arapahoe County Coroner’s Office will release the identity once proper notifications have been made, authorities said.

Multiple vehicles in the nearby U-Haul parking lot were damaged by the heat, but the fire did not extend into any structures.

Authorities closed roads the area of 4900 S. Santa Fe Drive. Roads in the area have since reopened.

The cause of the crash remains under active investigation by the SMFR Fire Marshal’s Office and the Englewood Police Department.

The fire was allowed to burn because of the environmental impacts of hazardous water runoff, according to SMFR.

Authorities said a hazmat team assisted with mitigation efforts.

SMFR and @LittletonPD are responding to a commercial carrier fire involving a potential hazmat component. Updates to follow as more information is confirmed. pic.twitter.com/3ID6JpVmhC

— South Metro Fire Rescue (@SouthMetroPIO) April 27, 2026

Update: The fire is under control. Crews are beginning overhaul, and the SMFR Hazmat Team is working on mitigation. Santa Fe Drive will remain closed for an extended period. The SMFR Fire Marshal’s Office and @PoliceEnglewood are investigating the cause of the fire. pic.twitter.com/C4Ch20ZcZR

— South Metro Fire Rescue (@SouthMetroPIO) April 27, 2026