All lanes reopen after semi-truck crashes into I-5 overpass
Jun 1, 2023, 6:21 AM | Updated: 9:57 am
A semi-truck crashed into an overpass on northbound I-5 in Lakewood Thursday morning, causing long backups and delays. (Photo from Washington State Patrol)
(Photo from Washington State Patrol)
A semi-truck crashed into an overpass on northbound I-5 in Lakewood Thursday morning, causing long backups and delays which have since been cleared.
The crash happened at the exit to eastbound State Route 512/South Tacoma Way, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) tweeted out at 2:51 a.m. Three of four lanes were closed until about 6:30 a.m. The right lane reopened around 7 a.m.
🚨Troopers and @WestPierce are on scene of a Semi Vs Ditch #collision that is blocking the northbound lanes of I5 at SR 512. Thankfully only minor injuries reported. @wsdot_tacoma is en-route for traffic control. Traffic is getting by on the left. pic.twitter.com/o4fcGuWuWv
— Trooper Robert Reyer (@wspd1pio) June 1, 2023
Traffic was backed up for about four miles and took a while to clear, but all lanes have since reopened.
Photos from the scene showed the semi-tractor in a vertical position against the overpass. The truck was on its side on the shoulder but has since been towed away.
Trooper Robert Reyer told KIRO 7 TV that the semi-truck veered off to the right, went up an embankment, flipped onto its side, and hit the overpass, causing its cab to jackknife into a vertical position.
Though the semi-tractor is mangled, Reyer said there were only minor injuries, and that driver fatigue may have played a role in the crash.
There is no structural damage to the overpass.
KIRO 7 contributed to this report
