Bald Eagle Rescued from I-5 in Tumwater

Authorities, residents team up to save injured bird on busy highway

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A bald eagle was rescued from the southbound lanes of Interstate 5 in Tumwater, Washington on Sunday evening after being struck by a passing vehicle. The rescue effort involved the Washington State Patrol, Department of Transportation, Department of Fish and Wildlife, and local residents.

Why it matters

Bald eagles are a protected species in the United States, and incidents of them being struck by vehicles on highways are relatively rare. This rescue highlights the collaborative efforts of authorities and community members to save an injured wild animal and protect an iconic species.

The details

The bald eagle was hit by a passing vehicle sometime between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday and landed on the right shoulder of I-5 near Trosper Road in Tumwater. It was not immediately clear if the bird was struck midflight or on the ground. In addition to the Washington State Patrol, the state Department of Transportation, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, and area residents all assisted in the rescue effort.

  • The incident occurred between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Washington State Patrol

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and coordinated the rescue effort.

Washington State Department of Transportation

The state agency that assisted in the rescue of the bald eagle on the highway.

Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting wildlife, including bald eagles, that helped with the rescue.

Area residents

Local community members who also assisted in the rescue of the injured bald eagle.

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The takeaway

This incident demonstrates the importance of community collaboration and the collective efforts of authorities to protect and rescue endangered wildlife, even in unexpected urban settings like a busy interstate highway.