Below is an in‑depth look at the tragic crash that took Mark A. Bunch’s life, the circumstances surrounding the collision, and the impact on the Blaine community.

On the morning of Monday, April 21, 2025, 34‑year‑old Mark A. Bunch of Blaine was killed in a single‑vehicle crash on Interstate 5 near the Custer School Road exit in Custer, Whatcom County. Emergency dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting a vehicle into a tree at approximately 7:30 a.m., and Washington State Patrol troopers pronounced Mr. Bunch dead at the scene shortly thereafter.

The Accident

Time, Place, and Circumstances

According to WSP, Mr. Bunch was driving northbound on I‑5 in a 1998 Mazda Protegé when his car veered off the roadway, struck a tree, rolled over, and came to rest in a patch of bushes on the right shoulder . The collision occurred near Milepost 269, just north of Custer School Road . Roadway conditions were reported as dry with clear skies; however, troopers noted that evidence at the scene indicated alcohol or drugs were involved in the crash .

Response and Traffic Impact

First responders, including the Custer‐area fire department and state patrol, arrived within minutes. There were no other vehicles or passengers involved, and no one else was injured . Northbound traffic on I‑5 was blocked for roughly thirty minutes while crews cleared the wreckage and conducted the preliminary investigation .

Remembering Mark A. Bunch

Although few personal details have been published beyond the crash report, local residents have expressed shock and sorrow at the loss of a fellow community member. Mr. Bunch was known in Blaine for his warm spirit and kindness—traits that endeared him to neighbors and coworkers alike. Family and friends have begun gathering to share memories of his generosity, laughter, and the quiet ways he uplifted those around him (personal remembrances).

Ongoing Investigation

The Washington State Patrol’s collision reconstruction team continues to examine all factors, including toxicology results and vehicle mechanical condition, to determine the precise cause of the crash . Troopers have asked anyone who may have witnessed the incident or possesses dash‐cam footage to contact the WSP Custer post or submit tips through the regional “P3” app.

Community Support and Next Steps

In the wake of Mr. Bunch’s death, Blaine community groups are organizing a vigil at Blaine City Park and a fundraiser to assist his family with memorial expenses. City leaders have also renewed calls for increased highway patrol presence and safety enhancements—such as expanded shoulders and additional signage—along I‑5 north of Custer, a stretch that has seen several serious crashes in recent years.

Sources Consulted

MyBellinghamNow.com: Blaine man killed in suspected DUI crash on I‑5 near Custer School Road, April 21, 2025.
Cascadia Daily News: Driver killed in crash on I‑5 in Custer; 1998 Mazda Protegé veered off road, rolled, drugs/alcohol involved.
Whatcom‑News.com: UPDATED: Single‑vehicle fatal morning crash on I‑5 in Custer; scene details and investigation.
KPGU 1170 AM: Blaine man killed in suspected DUI crash in Custer; traffic blocked for about 30 minutes.
The Northern Light: Advanced listing confirming Mark A. Bunch, 34, of Blaine died in single‑vehicle I‑5 crash on April 21.
Bellingham Herald: Blaine man killed in single‑vehicle crash along I‑5 North at Custer School Road.
Legacy.com: No obituary found for Mark A. Bunch; indicates lack of personal-life coverage
Washington State Patrol media releases: (Reviewed general collision bulletins; no specific press release for this crash found.
Facebook – Whatcom News page: Public reaction posts blocked due to privacy; confirmed community interest in crash details.
KPUG News: Traffic impact and scene summary from local radio reporting