A major traffic incident unfolded in Bellingham on Monday evening, causing significant disruptions on southbound I-5 at Sunset Drive. The incident, involving seven vehicles, including a semitruck, prompted the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) North to announce a complete closure of the highway at 4:46 p.m. Fortunately, reported injuries were minor, according to State Patrol Officer Kelsey Harding.
WSDOT successfully cleared the collision around 7:22 p.m., leading to the reopening of the roads. However, the aftermath resulted in extensive traffic congestion on southbound I-5, with delays stretching from Ohio Street to Slater Road, as indicated by the WSDOT interactive map. Commuters were urged to explore alternative routes to mitigate the impact of the backup.
The involvement of a semitruck played a crucial role in the delay, requiring additional time for towing and a more extensive removal process, explained Officer Harding. As of 1 p.m. on Tuesday, an ongoing investigation was being conducted to determine the cause of the multi-vehicle collision. Emergency response teams, including medical aid, State Patrol, fire crews, and tow trucks, were dispatched to the scene to effectively manage the situation.
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