January 19, 2021
King County: At approximately 12:30pm on January 18, 2021, Washington State Patrol (WSP) communications began receiving 9-1-1 calls indicating that there were vehicles and pedestrians fully blocking NB I-5 near Yesler in Seattle.
Once troopers arrived they observed over a dozen individuals seated across all lanes of NB I-5 with a couple vehicles blocking the lanes so no other vehicles could get through. Additional troopers responded to the scene and 12 individuals were arrested for investigation of Disorderly Conduct, Malicious Mischief and Obstruction. Another individual was transported to the hospital by the Seattle Fire Department in an abundance of caution. The individual was not listening or responding to trooper’s commands but it was later determined there was no medical emergency.
Troopers attempted to book the 12 individuals into the King County Jail but this request was declined due to COVID 19 concerns. They were issued citations and released. Two vehicles involved in blocking the lanes were impounded by troopers at the scene.
The Washington State Patrol fully supports the right to protest, however the freeway is not a legal or a safe place to do so.
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