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Bellevue, WA (June 25, 2026) – Three people were injured in a six-vehicle chain-reaction crash on Tuesday night on Interstate 405 in Bellevue that resulted in the arrest of one driver on suspicion of driving under the influence.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the collision was reported at approximately 10:16 p.m. on June 23 in the southbound lanes of Interstate 405 near the Coal Creek Parkway exit at milepost 10.2.
Investigators determined that vehicles two through six were stopped in the left lane due to traffic when the first vehicle failed to slow down and struck the rear of the second vehicle, triggering a chain-reaction collision involving all six vehicles.
The first vehicle came to rest in the left lane, while the remaining vehicles stopped on the right shoulder. Three people sustained injuries in the crash and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not released details regarding the severity of their injuries.
The Washington State Patrol identified driving under the influence as the cause of the collision. The driver of the first vehicle was arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular assault.
The crash blocked the southbound lanes of Interstate 405 near the Coal Creek Parkway ramp for approximately four hours while emergency crews treated the injured, investigated the scene, and removed the damaged vehicles. The investigation remains ongoing.
We hope those injured in this accident make a full and speedy recovery.
How Impaired Driving Contributes to Chain-Reaction Crashes?
Chain-reaction crashes frequently occur when a driver is unable to stop in time for slowed or stopped traffic. When impairment is suspected, investigators examine driver behavior, witness statements, physical evidence, and other investigative findings to determine how the collision occurred.
On busy highways, a single rear-end impact can quickly involve multiple vehicles, increasing the likelihood of injuries and extensive roadway closures. Emergency responders must usually coordinate medical care, traffic control, and vehicle removal while investigators reconstruct the sequence of events.
Impaired driving continues to be a significant factor in many serious crashes. Thorough investigations help authorities determine the circumstances surrounding these collisions and support any resulting criminal or traffic enforcement actions.
