All lanes reopened after civilian car hits military vehicle on northbound I-5 near Tacoma Mall
Aug 21, 2026, 2:11 PM | Updated: 2:13 pm
Aftermath of a crash involving a military vehicle on northbound I-5 in Tacoma Friday morning. (Photo courtesy of WSP)
(Photo courtesy of WSP)
A crash involving a military vehicle occurred on northbound I-5 in Tacoma Friday morning.
The crash happened near the Tacoma Mall at 56th Street on northbound I-5, blocking two lanes that have since reopened.
“A military vehicle and a black Toyota Prius sideswiped each other while merging into the same lane,” Washington State Patrol (WSP) Trooper Kameron Watts told KIRO Newsradio. “No injuries, and the Toyota will be getting towed from the scene. The military convoy will continue their movement from here.”
According to KIRO Newsradio traffic reporter Chris Sullivan, the crash was “pretty significant,” with heavy debris along the highway, causing a “pretty sizable backup.”
NB I-5 at S. 56th St.
The two right lanes are blocked for a one car-military vehicle collision.
No injuries to report on and it’s unknown how long these lanes will be occupied.
— Trooper Kameron Watts (@wspd1pio) August 21, 2026
“Looks like it was a military convoy from Fort Lewis heading northbound on I-5 in Tacoma,” Sullivan shared. “At least eight different military rigs.”
No injuries occurred in the crash, and no citations were issued. A WSP trooper is at the scene.
This is a developing story, check back for updates
Follow Frank Sumrall on X. Send news tips here.
