Tacoma, WA (February 22, 2026) – A Washington State Patrol trooper was injured early Saturday after a driver crashed into a patrol vehicle on Interstate 5 in Tacoma. Emergency units responded around 1 a.m. on February 21 to the southbound I-5 near South 72nd Street, where troopers were already handling a separate crash.
According to officials, a sedan drove through the active scene and struck a marked patrol vehicle. The driver had reportedly swerved onto the highway shoulder and was using it as a travel lane before hitting the trooper’s car.
After the impact, the sedan continued southbound. Details about the extent of the trooper’s injuries have not been released. No additional information about the driver has been made available.
The incident remains under active investigation. We are keeping the injured trooper in our thoughts as he recovers.
Risks to First Responders at Highway Crash Scenes
Highway crash scenes present serious risks for first responders, especially on busy roadways like I-5. Troopers, firefighters, and medical crews often work close to moving traffic while assisting victims and directing cars around the scene.
Using the shoulder as a travel lane can create unexpected hazards. Drivers may attempt to bypass congestion without realizing emergency crews are positioned nearby. At night, reduced visibility can make it harder to see flashing lights or stopped vehicles until it is too late.
Many states promote “Move Over” laws, which require drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles. These laws are designed to reduce secondary crashes and protect those working along the roadway. Even with safety measures in place, active highway scenes remain high-risk environments.
