Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident on 5 Freeway near Bridgeport Way
LAKEWOOD, WA (March 8, 2018) – Three people were killed in a hit-and-run rollover crash on the southbound Interstate 5 near Bridgeport Way and New York Avenue Southwest, early Thursday morning.
According to reports, around 2:15 AM a 23-year-old man traveling southbound passed a semi-truck in the slow lane and swerved, crossing over into the left two lanes and crashing into a Honda CRV, before fleeing. The Honda rolled over, throwing two people out of the car, and killing all three occupants.
WSP Trooper Travis Joyce said that the engine block from the Honda launched into the northbound lanes, causing another accident where a DuPont Police officer’s patrol car was struck by a semi. No serious injuries were reported in the northbound lane incident. All lanes of the I-5 southbound were closed, as well as three lanes of the northbound freeway. Traffic was backed up for about 4 miles, and lanes didn’t reopen until several hours later.
The hit-and-run suspect was quickly arrested about 3 miles away with help from a Seattle Police dispatcher that witnessed the accident and followed the driver. The car was found shortly after the accident with a woman outside of it, attempting to rip off the bumper.
Officials arrested the driver for investigation of vehicular homicide. He was driving without a driver’s license ad was suspected of being under the influence. Authorities also found a stolen firearm in his vehicle. There is currently no information on the people involved in this fatal crash.
Wishing strength and support to the family and friends of the victims in this tragic accident.
If you have lost a loved one in an auto accident caused by the reckless driving of a person under the influence, contact the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We will fight for you and your family, day and night, until we achieve the justice and compensation that is owed. Call our offices at (800) 203-3061 for a free consultation, and discuss your case with a legal professional in a location near you.