Wrong-way driver arrested for DUI after crashing into semi on I-5

A car driving the wrong way collided on Interstate 5, sparking in flames, near Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s (JBLM) main gate Tuesday afternoon.

Troopers said the wrong-way vehicle collided with a semi truck, but there were no serious injuries as of this report.

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🚨#Collision involving a wrong-way vehicle and a semi on northbound I-5, just north of @JBLM_PAO main gate

🚧 Troopers, @wsdot_tacoma, and fire at the scene. Currently, all north- and southbound lanes are blocked

Luckily, no serious injuries! pic.twitter.com/iK0jz6dC4D

— Trooper Robert Reyer (@wspd1pio) March 7, 2023

Firefighters and medics responded to the scene alongside the Washington State Patrol and the Washington State Department of Transportation.

The wrong-way driver is in custody for alleged DUI, according to Trooper Robert Reyer.

#UPDATE – The wrong-way driver is in custody for DUI

We appreciate your patience as the troopers, tow truck operators, and @wsdot_tacoma are working to clear the vehicles and road debris

— Trooper Robert Reyer (@wspd1pio) March 8, 2023

A passenger going southbound on I-5 shared video of the wrong-way driver hitting the semi-truck. Remarkably, there were no serious injuries.

pic.twitter.com/pL6rEra0wU

— Sammie_Rose (@RealSammmie1) March 8, 2023

Backups lasted up to 10 miles long Tuesday night as WSDOT crews continued to clean up debris.

The intense heat of the fire created a lot of debris that our crews are still cleaning up on NB I-5. Two lanes are open. We know this is not how you wanted your Tuesday to end. Thank you for your continued patience. pic.twitter.com/DmyVtI6y8F

— WSDOT Tacoma (@wsdot_tacoma) March 8, 2023