Pedestrian Injured in Crash on Sunset Drive Near I-5 in Bellingham

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A pedestrian suffered injuries early Thursday after a vehicle struck him near the Interstate 5 overpass on Sunset Drive. The crash closed westbound State Route 542 for several hours and backed up morning traffic.

This Crash Report is sponsored by CrashLaw.NET, a legal resource for crash victims in Whatcom County.

Bellingham Fire Department crews responded about 4:50 a.m. to East Sunset Drive and the I-5 overpass. They found a crash involving one vehicle and one pedestrian.

Firefighters treated the injured man at the scene. A paramedic unit then transported him to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. Officials have not released his age or condition.

“Our crews did respond this morning at approximately 4:50 a.m. at E. Sunset Dr. and the I-5 overpass for a motor vehicle incident involving a single vehicle and a pedestrian. The pedestrian, male with unknown age, was the only person injured. That person was treated on scene and transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham by one of our paramedic units.”

Capt. Dustin Michaelis, Bellingham Fire Department PIO

“Our crews did respond this morning at approximately 4:50 a.m. at E. Sunset Dr. and the I-5 overpass for a motor vehicle incident involving a single vehicle and a pedestrian. The pedestrian, male with unknown age, was the only person injured. That person was treated on scene and transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bellingham by one of our paramedic units,” Bellingham Fire Department Public Information Officer and Fire Capt. Dustin Michaelis said.

Westbound Lanes Remained Closed

Meanwhile, the Washington State Department of Transportation closed all westbound lanes of Sunset Drive, also designated as SR 542, at Interstate 5.

Emergency crews remained at the scene throughout the morning. Tow operators also worked to remove the damaged vehicle.

About eight hours after the crash, WSDOT reported that all westbound lanes remained blocked. Officials warned drivers to expect delays and use alternate routes.

The closure affected commuters traveling through one of Bellingham’s busiest highway connections during the morning rush.

Investigation Continues

Police have not released details about what caused the crash. Investigators also have not said whether speed, impairment, or other factors contributed.

Officials have not identified the injured pedestrian. They also have not released information about the driver.

The investigation remains active.

Frequently Asked Questions