The Washington State Patrol (WSP) has confirmed that a semi truck driver was arrested following a crash that left one person dead and several others with serious injuries.
The crash occurred around 7:45 a.m. on Friday, March 18, in Tacoma, Washington.
WSP Trooper Robert Reyer said that the crash happened on northbound I-5 near mile marker 131 and involved seven vehicles, including two semi trucks.
Horrible crash on I-5 near the Tacoma Mall involving several big rigs and cars. At least 1 dead, 4 others taken to hospital. All NB lanes closed right now pic.twitter.com/oDS2wRgpmD
— John HopperstadTV (@JohnHopperstad) March 18, 2022
Authorities said that one person was pronounced dead at the scene.
Four others were transported to the hospital — one in critical condition, two in serious condition, and one person who was transported as a precaution. Two other people were treated for minor injuries at the scene.
Trooper Reyer later stated that one of the semi truck drivers involved in the crash had been arrested for DUI.
The Washington State Department of Transportation is asking drivers to avoid northbound I-5 in Tacoma at 38th St. due to lengthy cleanup and investigation of the fatal crash.
Due to the complexity of the crash scene investigation and clean up, expect all lanes of northbound I-5 in Tacoma at 38th St. to be closed for several hours. Travelers are being diverted via Exit 132 SR 16/S. 38th St. Delay your travels if possible. pic.twitter.com/KJAF9NiqkQ
— WSDOT Tacoma (@wsdot_tacoma) March 18, 2022
The crash remains under investigation.