October 13, 2026 9:20 a.m. 

Two, two-vehicle accidents impacted freeway traffic during the Monday afternoon commute.

An Oregon State Police report said at 5:05 p.m. troopers responded to a semi-truck versus compact vehicle accident on Interstate 5 southbound near the West Harvard Avenue Exit 124. One of the vehicles had reportedly crossed into the opposing vehicle’s lane. The driver of the compact vehicle stated that he had swerved to avoid the semi and when he did, his vehicle crashed into the center median.

The semi-truck driver stated that his vehicle came into contact with the compact vehicle prior to the other vehicle hitting the median. The compact vehicle sustained front end damage and was towed. The semi-truck had no damage. The crash is under review to determine which driver drove outside their lane.

About ten minutes later, a second accident took place. The driver of a sedan stated that they had slammed on their brakes when they saw brake lights on ahead of them. Despite braking, the vehicle hit a second vehicle. Airbags were deployed on the first vehicle and there was severe front-end damage. The second vehicle sustained rear end damage and was not drivable. Both vehicles were towed from the scene. The driver who caused the crash was cited for following two closely.

The accidents led to a substantial backup on Interstate 5 southbound for a time.