Three-Car Crash Creates 6-Mile I-5 Backup in Bellingham

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A three-car injury crash on Interstate 5 near Iowa Street disrupted traffic through Bellingham Friday afternoon, blocking all northbound lanes and part of the southbound freeway during the initial response.

Washington State Patrol Trooper Kelsey Harding reported that the crash involved three vehicles and that one vehicle came to rest on its roof. Troopers and other emergency crews responded to the scene near Iowa Street, around milepost 254.

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The collision caused a major traffic backup during the Friday afternoon commute. WSDOT reported more than six miles of northbound traffic backup as crews continued to clear the crash.

Northbound lanes partially reopen

WSDOT initially reported that all northbound lanes were blocked just north of Iowa Street. The left lane of southbound I-5 also was blocked during the response.

The left northbound lane later reopened, while the right lane remained closed. All southbound lanes reopened.

Even after lanes began reopening, WSDOT warned drivers to expect continued delays as Friday afternoon commute traffic picked up.

The investigation remained active Friday evening. WSP had not released information about the identities or conditions of those involved.

Drivers traveling through Bellingham should slow down near the crash scene, watch for emergency crews and allow additional time for the commute.

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