Southbound I-5 Reopens After Deadly Semi Crash Near Tumwater

OLYMPIA, WA — The driver of a semi-truck died Monday morning after crashing into an overpass near Tumwater, and the resulting investigation snarled southbound traffic on Interstate 5 for several hours. According to Washington State Patrol, the semi was traveling south near milepost 97 when it crashed shortly before 8 a.m.

The Washington State Department of Transportation confirmed all southbound lanes were blocked south of Tumwater, with vehicles being detoured to Tilley Road or State Route 121. The closure remained in place through the morning, with backups stretching at least seven miles by 10 a.m., when crews were able to reopen the left lane. A second southbound lane reopened around noon.

Photos shared from the scene showed heavy damage to a trailer under the overpass and removing the debris required heavy machinery. Troopers said the truck was also leaking diesel, and the trailer was full, complicating the removal effort. WSDOT crews also had to inspect the overpass structure, but officials said there were no obvious signs of significant damage.

Large tow trucks were able to access the scene and begin moving the trailer just before 2:30 p.m. WSDOT said drivers should expect delays until the scene was cleared. WSP will complete a full investigation into what caused the crash.