An overnight high-speed police pursuit along Interstate 5 ended in a violent crash in DuPont early Friday when a fleeing sedan crossed all lanes of traffic and collided with a semi-truck, according to Washington State Patrol troopers. The driver of the car was injured and taken to Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, while the semi driver was not seriously hurt, troopers said.
How the chase unfolded
Troopers say the pursuit began southbound on I-5 near the King County line after officers attempted a traffic stop and the vehicle took off instead of pulling over. The chase continued into Pierce County before the driver turned around near DuPont and headed back north on I-5, where the sedan crossed multiple lanes and struck the semi, according to The News Tribune. Trooper Kameron Watts provided the timeline to investigators, saying troopers followed the car into Pierce County.
People involved and charges under review
State patrol records identify the driver as a 28-year-old Burien man suspected of felony eluding, possession of a stolen vehicle and driving under the influence, per the Washington State Patrol. Troopers said the semi's driver, a 25-year-old Shelton man, escaped without injury.
Scene response and traffic impact
Emergency crews shut down lanes on I-5 in the DuPont area while they cleared the wreckage and assisted the injured driver, leading to delays for early-morning motorists. The injured driver was transported to Madigan Army Medical Center for treatment, officials said.
Next steps
Investigators with the Washington State Patrol are working with Pierce County prosecutors to determine formal charges, with filings expected to hinge on evidence such as toxicology results and vehicle records. The patrol said the crash remains under investigation and asked anyone with information to contact troopers.
