A fatal vehicle-pedestrian collision shut down northbound Interstate 5 at Martin Luther King Jr. Way in south Seattle on Wednesday, choking off a key route just as the morning commute ramped up, authorities said. Troopers and emergency crews worked the scene while investigators documented evidence, and drivers were told to brace for delays and use alternate routes through the morning.
What officials said
The Washington State Patrol described the incident as a vehicle-pedestrian crash that forced the closure of northbound I-5 at MLK Way so investigators could work the scene, according to KING 5. Trooper Rick Johnson confirmed the shutdown on social media and, as KING 5 reported, urged drivers to slow down, use caution and look for alternate ways around the closure.
Traffic impacts and context
Any closure on I-5 is enough to cause headaches, but this stretch near MLK Way is particularly vulnerable during peak hours, with backups that can quickly spill onto neighborhood streets. The area has already been dealing with lane reductions and maintenance tied to the broader "Revive I-5" project, a combination that can worsen delay patterns, as previously detailed in coverage of weekend road closures for Revive I-5.
Investigation and next steps
Washington State Patrol had not released additional information about the person killed or the circumstances of the collision at the time of reporting, according to KING 5. Troopers remained at the scene into the morning while investigators continued their work, and no estimated time for reopening the freeway was immediately available.
How to avoid the area
Drivers heading north through south Seattle should plan for significant delays and consider detouring to I-405, SR-99 or nearby surface streets where possible. Travelers are encouraged to check official traffic channels and local news outlets for the latest updates before heading into the corridor.
