A busy stretch of SR‑18 near Covington turned into a miles-long headache Thursday afternoon after a multi-vehicle crash shut down lanes in both directions and brought emergency crews racing to the freeway. The collision happened just before 3 p.m. near the SR‑169 interchange, choking off evening commutes through the Maple Valley-Covington area. Witnesses said a helicopter landed directly on the highway as medics and fire crews tended to the injured, while drivers were warned to expect heavy delays and to seek alternate routes.
What Officials Say
According to FOX 13 Seattle, the Washington State Department of Transportation said the collision occurred just before 3:00 p.m. and was blocking all eastbound lanes at the SR‑169 interchange. The report said westbound traffic was squeezing by on the shoulder while eastbound lanes were backed up nearly two miles. WSDOT did not have an immediate estimate for when the roadway would reopen.
Injuries and First Response
Puget Sound Fire told FOX 13 that "three people were taken to the hospital with serious injuries," and witnesses described a helicopter landing on the highway to assist first responders. Life-flight crews were reported at the scene as medics triaged patients for transport. Police and fire units remained on scene while investigators documented the crash.
Traffic Impact and What Drivers Should Do
Eastbound SR‑18 and northbound SR‑169 were backed up for nearly two miles, creating heavy delays through the Maple Valley-Covington corridor. For live conditions and official detour suggestions, drivers are directed to check the Washington State Department of Transportation's travel map on WSDOT or the mobile app before heading out. Local agencies urged motorists to avoid the area while crews cleared the scene and to plan for extended travel times.
Why This Corridor Matters
SR‑18 is a key commuter route across South King County, and closures there quickly spill onto nearby surface streets. This story will be updated as police and transportation officials release more information.
