A pickup went through a bridge barrier near SR 509 before burning below the overpass.
TACOMA, Wash. — Tacoma officials are preparing temporary and long-term repairs after a fatal Monday crash left a section of the East Portland Avenue overpass barrier broken near SR 509.
The crash killed one person after a pickup left the overpass around 5:30 a.m., went through the barrier and caught fire below. Tacoma police are investigating the cause, while city crews are assessing the bridge damage.
Tacoma Fire Department crews were sent to the scene after several calls reported a vehicle fire and loud explosion sounds below the overpass. Fire spokesperson Chelsea Shepherd said the flames were brought under control quickly because crews wanted the fire contained in the busy area.
Firefighters found one person dead inside the pickup. Officials said there were no other occupants and no injuries to people on the ground. Authorities had not publicly identified the driver by Wednesday.
The city kept the overpass open to traffic after placing fencing around the broken barrier. Officials said bolted guardrails will serve as an interim safety measure while a permanent restoration plan is developed.
The final repair plan is expected to include the safe removal of loose concrete still hanging from the damaged barrier area. City officials said the full restoration process could take as long as one year.
Tacoma police have not released findings on why the pickup left the road. The next steps include the crash investigation, bridge repair planning and any public updates from police or city transportation officials.
Author note: Last updated June 10, 2026.