Wrong-way head-on collision on I-5 near Tumwater kills woman and child Friday night
A woman and child died in a wrong-way head-on collision Friday night on Interstate 5 near Tumwater, the Washington State Patrol reported.
The 31-year-old woman and 2-year-old boy were from Chehalis, according to a news release.
An 8-year-old girl rode in the same vehicle. First responders transported the girl to an area children’s hospital.
The group rode in a gray 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The other driver, a 27-year-old Shelton man, was in a white 2016 Jeep Wrangler.
The Jeep was headed the wrong way: northbound on I-5 in the third southbound lane, said Trooper John Dattilo. The Chevrolet was headed south on I-5 in the same lane. The vehicles collided head-on.
The Chevrolet came to rest, facing north in the third southbound lane. The Jeep came to rest on a cement barrier.
Troopers are on scene with a collision blocking SB I5 just north of SR 101. I am heartbroken to announce that a child has died as a result, and another is in serious condition. One of the involved drivers is in custody for DUI.
— Trooper John Dattilo (@wspd1pio) November 11, 2023
The Shelton man behind the wheel of the Jeep also appeared to be affected by drugs or alcohol, Dattilo said. The Shelton man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, vehicular homicide and vehicular assault.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, according to the news release.
