Editor’s note: This article was updated with new information from WSP. Last update: April 22, 2026, at 9:50 a.m. 

BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – One person was hospitalized following a crash that slowed traffic on I-5 for several hours near Bellingham on Tuesday, April 21.

State Patrol Trooper Kelsey Harding reported the collision involving two cars and a bicyclist around 11:30 am. It took place on northbound I-5 just north of the Samish Way exit.

According to Washington State Patrol, one vehicle was heading northbound when they attempted to merge and were struck by another vehicle, sending the first vehicle into the guardrail where it struck the cyclist who was riding on the right shoulder. WSP says the cyclist was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle with serious injuries.

The two occupants of the vehicles involved were not injured.

According to WSDOT bike restrictions map, cycling is permitting on that stretch of I-5 as long as the rider is using the shoulder.

Both lanes of NB I-5 fully reopened around 3:45 pm. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.