January 31, 2024 – Nationwide Report®

A tragedy unfolded early Tuesday on southbound Interstate 5 in Smokey Point. A fatal three-vehicle crash claimed the life of a motorcyclist and led to a closure lasting over six hours.

Washington State Patrol Trooper Kelsey Harding reported that the motorcycle, a Jeep, and a semi-truck were involved in the fatal crash. The motorcycle, allegedly speeding, struck the Jeep, causing the motorcyclist to be fatally injured. They were pronounced dead at the scene. 

Despite the Jeep driver moving to the shoulder and activating hazards, the semi-truck, unable to perceive the motorcyclist on the road, struck both rider and bike. The victim, identified as Christopher R. Salge, 40, of Arlington, lost his life in the tragic multi-vehicle accident. The affected lanes reopened around 9:30 a.m.

Source: Kiro 7