PORTLAND, Ore. — A major multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 Tuesday afternoon left several people injured and prompted an extensive emergency response near the Nyberg Street exit, according to officials with Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue.
The collision occurred shortly before 4 p.m. on northbound I-5 near the Nyberg Street off-ramp. Emergency dispatchers initially received reports of a rollover crash involving a trapped driver. However, when officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the situation was far more serious than originally believed.
Authorities found that seven vehicles had been involved in the crash. Two individuals were trapped inside separate vehicles—one vehicle had overturned completely, while another had come to rest on its side.
Firefighters and rescue crews quickly launched a complex extrication effort. Because both damaged vehicles were unstable, emergency personnel first worked to secure them using specialized stabilization equipment. Struts and shoring systems were installed to prevent movement while crews carefully removed the trapped occupants.
After an intensive rescue operation, both victims were successfully freed from the wreckage.
Officials said the two individuals suffered critical injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.
Several other people involved in the crash sustained minor injuries. Emergency crews evaluated them at the scene, and no additional hospital transports were reported.
The collision caused major traffic disruptions during the afternoon commute, with delays stretching along northbound Interstate 5. Drivers were advised to avoid the area while emergency personnel worked to clear the wreckage, assist victims, and investigate the cause of the crash.
Authorities have not released the identities of those involved, and investigators have not yet determined what led to the seven-vehicle collision. Officials are expected to review physical evidence from the scene, vehicle damage, witness accounts, and other available information as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident highlights the dangers that can develop rapidly on busy freeway corridors, particularly during peak travel periods. Multi-vehicle crashes often occur within seconds and can quickly escalate into serious emergencies involving multiple victims and extensive rescue efforts.
As of Tuesday evening, officials had not provided updated information regarding the conditions of the two critically injured victims.
The investigation remains active.
