I-5 Tacoma Accident South Today Tacoma, Washington — A serious wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 southbound near Tacoma caused major traffic disruptions Sunday morning after multiple vehicles collided near South 84th Street, leaving several people injured and forcing authorities to temporarily shut down all southbound lanes.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the collision occurred shortly after 8 a.m. near Exit 129 and South 84th Street. Investigators said the crash involved three vehicles after a driver reportedly traveled the wrong direction on southbound I-5.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene as traffic quickly backed up for miles throughout Tacoma and surrounding Pierce County areas. Authorities diverted drivers off the freeway at South 72nd Street while crews worked to assist victims, investigate the crash, and remove damaged vehicles from the roadway.
Support the Family
Your kind contribution will help the family during this difficult time. Every gesture of support brings comfort and shows you care. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.
Donate NowThank you for your support and love during this time.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Kameron Watts confirmed that four people — including three adults and one juvenile — suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious. Officials later announced that one person was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and vehicular assault in connection with the crash.
Complicating traffic conditions, a separate unrelated collision was also reported in the northbound lanes near the same area, leading to additional lane blockages and extended delays in both directions.
Photos and traffic camera images shared by the Washington State Department of Transportation showed emergency vehicles covering multiple lanes as firefighters, paramedics, and troopers remained on scene for several hours.
Authorities eventually reopened the southbound lanes around late morning, though traffic congestion continued affecting drivers traveling through Tacoma well into the afternoon.
The Washington State Patrol continues investigating the circumstances that led to the wrong-way driver entering Interstate 5. Officials have not yet publicly released the identities of those involved.
