Dozen arrested after blocking Interstate 5 lanes in Seattle

SEATTLE (AP) — Twelve people were arrested and two vehicles were impounded Monday after protesters blocked Interstate 5 in Seattle, the Washington State Patrol reports.

Troopers responded to the scene, in the northbound I-5 collector-distributor lanes near James Street, at about 12:30 p.m. Monday after receiving reports of traffic being blocked by a protest.

Trooper Rick Johnson says the protesters stopped traffic and quickly caused a long backup past the Interstate 90 interchange.

Troopers cleared the scene and took 12 people into custody. All will be booked into the King County Jail.

During the protest, the group painted the letters “BLM” on the pavement.

All lanes have since reopened.