Driver dead after ‘major collision’ shut down I-5 north near Lakewood; All lanes back open

All lanes heading north on I-5 are back open after a fatal crash near Lakewood involving a semitruck occurred early Tuesday morning.

The southbound lanes also reopened after all lanes were shut down earlier this morning.

All lanes are now open on I-5 near S 84th Street in Tacoma. Thank you for your patience folks. It will take time for traffic to clear. pic.twitter.com/pYXmQMh106

— WSDOT Tacoma (@wsdot_tacoma) April 29, 2025

The accident occurred after a semitruck collided with a barrier near the 84th Street exit on I-5 north just after 4:45 a.m., the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) confirmed. The semitruck toppled over after hitting the highway barrier, crashing into a power pole, which subsequently led to the vehicle catching fire. The driver of the truck died at the scene.

Four hours later. This is what’s left of the semi involved in this morning’s fatal crash and fire. All northbound lanes of I-5 remain closed. pic.twitter.com/8IOU8mx27q

— Chris Sullivan (@NEWSGUYSULLY) April 29, 2025

“I am saddened to announce that the truck driver has died as a result of this crash,” Washington State Patrol (WSP) Trooper John Datillo said. “Expect an extended closure as we investigate. We are working to determine the details that led to the crash.”

Crews are on scene of a semi truck collision. They are working to extinguish the fire. I-5 Northbound is blocked at 84th St. South. Unknown if there are any injuries at this time. pic.twitter.com/EyAzfyfo6s

— West Pierce Fire & Rescue (@WestPierce) April 29, 2025