Available 
SeaTac, WA (March 24, 2026) – Five people were injured early on Monday morning in a suspected DUI crash involving several vehicles on northbound I-5 just south of S 178th St in SeaTac.
The accident occurred around 12:22 a.m. on Monday, March 23, when the driver of one vehicle lost control and struck another car traveling on the freeway. The impact triggered a chain reaction crash involving three additional vehicles.
According to reports, the first vehicle came to rest on the left shoulder and caught fire after the collision. Other vehicles involved stopped in a nearby ditch, on the left shoulder, and in lanes two and three of the freeway. The roadway remained blocked for about four and a half hours as emergency units worked at the scene.
Investigators identified the suspected driver as a 44-year-old man from Tacoma. He was not injured but is expected to face charges related to driving under the influence and vehicular assault.
Among those hurt were a 59-year-old man from Renton who was taken to Harborview Medical Center and a 27-year-old man from Federal Way who was evaluated at the scene. Three others, a 23-year-old woman from McKinleyville, California; a 22-year-old woman from Trinidad, California; and a 20-year-old woman from Saint Helens, Oregon, were taken to Valley Medical Center.
Officials reported that two vehicles, a 2004 Toyota Corolla and a 2008 Honda Fit, were totaled. Three others sustained reportable damage.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. Our thoughts are with those injured as they recover.
How Chain-Reaction Crashes Happen on Busy Highways
Chain-reaction crashes often occur on high-speed roads where multiple vehicles travel closely together. When the first collision happens, drivers behind may not have enough time or space to stop safely, leading to additional impacts.
These incidents are more likely during nighttime hours or when traffic is moving quickly. Sudden braking, loss of vehicle control, or impaired driving can increase the chance of the first crash that sets off the sequence.
Once several vehicles become involved, they may come to rest in different lanes or on the shoulder, creating hazards for approaching drivers. Debris, disabled vehicles, and blocked lanes can make it difficult for traffic to move safely through the area.
Clearing a multi-vehicle crash can take time, as damaged vehicles must be removed and the roadway inspected before traffic can resume.
