All EB SR 18 lanes reopen after semi loses brakes, hits 7 vehicles in Auburn
Oct 13, 2026, 9:12 AM | Updated: 11:05 am
A photo of the traffic along eastbound SR 18. (Photo courtesy of the Washington State Department of Transportation)
(Photo courtesy of the Washington State Department of Transportation)
All lanes of eastbound SR 18 reopened Tuesday after a semi-truck lost its brakes and collided with seven other vehicles in Auburn.
The collision occurred at approximately 8:05 a.m. just west of SR 167 at milepost 3, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced.
WSDOT noted intermittent lane closures may appear throughout the morning in the area. Travelers were advised to use caution and expect delays.
Washington State Patrol (WSP) Trooper Rick Johnson confirmed several drivers were transported to the hospital, but no one sustained major injuries.
#CollisionAlert EB 18 west of SR 167. There is an injury collision involving a semi that had brake failure striking 8 or 9 vehicles. All lanes will be closed. Traffic being diverted to SR 181. Please use caution approaching the area.
— Trooper Rick Johnson (@wspd2pio) October 13, 2026
The semi-truck was seen stopped along the right shoulder of eastbound SR 18 at 8:45 a.m.
Truck lost its brakes heading EB 18 approaching SR 167. It hit 8-9 cars. All lanes of EB 18 are CLOSED at West Valley Hwy. @wsdot_traffic @wspd2pio https://t.co/dsBogAczjB
— KIRO Newsradio Traffic (@KIROTraffic) October 13, 2026
Traffic is currently being diverted to West Valley Highway while first responders are on the scene.
No estimated time is available for the rest of the lanes to reopen.
WSDOT advised travelers to expect delays, slow down, and use caution along the detour route.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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