Fatal I5 Tacoma Accident Today – Wrong-Way Crash Causes Major Shutdown After Multi-Vehicle Collision Leaves Four Injured and Freeway Closed for Hours
A serious wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 in Tacoma caused major traffic disruptions Sunday morning after authorities shut down all southbound lanes while emergency crews responded to a multi-vehicle collision involving a wrong-way driver.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash occurred near South 84th Street and Milepost 128 shortly after 8:00 a.m. Investigators said the incident involved a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on the southbound lanes of I-5, leading to a severe collision with multiple motorists.
The impact forced officials to fully close all southbound lanes through the area as emergency responders arrived on scene. Firefighters, paramedics, and state troopers worked together to assist victims, secure the roadway, and begin an extensive crash investigation.
Trooper Kameron Watts confirmed that four people were transported to nearby hospitals following the collision. Authorities reported that three of the injured victims sustained serious injuries. The condition of the wrong-way driver has not yet been publicly detailed.
Traffic was diverted off the freeway at South 72nd Street, resulting in significant backups across Tacoma and surrounding communities. The closure led to extended delays as congestion spread to nearby interchanges and surface streets.
Photos from the Washington State Department of Transportation showed multiple emergency vehicles positioned across the freeway while southbound traffic remained completely halted for hours. Officials warned that the closure would remain in place for an extended period due to the severity of the crash and ongoing investigation.
Investigators said the wrong-way vehicle entered the freeway under circumstances that are still being examined. It remains unclear whether impairment, speed, confusion, or other factors contributed to the driver traveling in the opposite direction. Authorities noted that wrong-way crashes are particularly dangerous due to the high likelihood of head-on, high-speed impacts.
Complicating traffic conditions, a separate collision was also reported in the northbound lanes of I-5 near the same area, blocking lanes three and four and further slowing traffic in both directions.
Motorists were urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes as emergency crews continued their work at the scene. Drivers were also advised to expect prolonged delays, sudden lane closures, and heavy congestion throughout the morning.
The Washington State Patrol continues its investigation, reviewing surveillance footage, witness accounts, and roadway entry points as they work to determine how the wrong-way driver entered the interstate.
Officials have not yet released the identities of those involved, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Disclaimer: This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement and transportation officials at the time of publication. Details may change as the investigation continues and additional verified updates are released.