National City, CA (August 4, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 near the Civic Center Plaza off-ramp left several people hurt late Sunday night, prompting a swift response from local agencies. The crash took place just before midnight in the National City area, near several well-known landmarks including hotels and an In-N-Out Burger.
Two vehicles—a black Mercedes and a red Nissan—collided in the southbound lanes of I-5, blocking both the #1 and right traffic lanes. Witnesses reported one of the vehicles struck an Altima before coming to a stop. The severity of the collision prompted authorities to call for emergency medical assistance and multiple tow trucks to the scene.
Medics assessed the involved individuals for a variety of injuries. While the total number of injured victims has not been confirmed, at least one party required immediate care. Emergency crews worked quickly to shift all debris and vehicles to the #4 lane, helping restore some traffic flow just after midnight.
The California Highway Patrol noted that the crash occurred near a busy exit corridor serving Chula Vista and National City. Tow services, including Quality Tow, were dispatched to remove the damaged vehicles. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We extend our best wishes for a full recovery to everyone impacted by this late-night collision.
Multi-Vehicle Collisions in California
Busy interstates like I-5 through National City see thousands of drivers daily, making them high-risk zones for multi-vehicle crashes—especially at night. The recent collision near Civic Center Plaza highlights the challenges drivers face in congested areas where merging traffic, highway exits, and frequent lane changes can quickly lead to dangerous situations.
This incident involved multiple blocked lanes and required a coordinated response from paramedics, traffic officers, and rotation tow services. When vehicles are disabled across several lanes, the risk of secondary accidents increases, adding urgency to the emergency response timeline.
Multi-vehicle accidents often result in varied injuries, vehicle damage, and major delays. For victims, the impact can extend well beyond physical harm. Medical bills, missed work, and mental distress are common consequences after such events. Drivers traveling through busy corridors like I-5 in National City should remain extra cautious during late hours when visibility and reaction times are diminished.
If you’ve been involved in a serious freeway collision, getting the right help immediately can make a major difference in your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash on I-5 or any of California’s busy freeways, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We connect victims with reliable local resources, helping you get the care, clarity, and guidance needed after a serious collision. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today and let our team help you take your next steps forward with confidence.