A car reportedly struck a tree and burst into flames on La Plata Highway Friday evening.

A witness called dispatch shortly after 6 p.m., and San Juan County Fire and Rescue responded to the crash, which happened near the intersection of County Road 1191.

The highway was closed for about 45 minutes.

“It was crazy,” said Amanda Burns, who lives in the area. “Everything was already on fire when I came across it, and I heard small pops going on after the car exploded.”

San Juan County spokesperson Devin Neeley said witnesses pulled the driver out of the burning car. He also said the blaze also sparked a small brush fire, which was quickly extinguished.

Neeley said the investigation was turned over to New Mexico State Police.

The Tri-City Record will have more information when it becomes available.