TACOMA, Wash. — All lanes of northbound Interstate 5 at 38th Street in Tacoma have reopened following a multi-vehicle crash that brought traffic to a halt Friday morning.
Firefighters were called at about 8 a.m. to the scene, which involved six vehicles and two semitrucks.
According to Washington State Patrol, a 54-year-old Lakewood man died at the scene and multiple others were injured.
Three people were taken to Tacoma General Hospital for treatment and a fourth person was taken to Madigan Army Medical Center.
Just an awful scene on I5 north in #Tacoma. Police tell me this multi vehicle crash happened shortly after 7:30am. Total of 7 victims, 1 fatality at this time. The drive of the maroon semi truck was arrested for DUI. Highway to be closed for several hours. @KIRO7Seattle pic.twitter.com/gylrsfV4Bx
— Tyler Unwin (@TylerUnwin) March 18, 2022
Troopers said the driver who caused the collision is being investigated for driving under the influence and is expected to be charged with vehicular homicide and four counts of vehicular assault.
Drivers were rerouted to exit 132 at state Route 16 South and South 38th Street to help get them around the chaos.
The road was closed for more than seven hours.
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