Semi-Truck Collision Closes SR18 for Over Three Hours; DUI Suspected

A serious rollover collision involving two semi-trucks on September 17, 2024, resulted in the closure of SR18 near Raging River for over three hours. The incident occurred at approximately 3:43 a. m. , blocking both eastbound and westbound lanes, which prompted immediate action from the Washington State Patrol. The vehicles involved were identified as a 2023 Freightliner Cascadia and a 2021 Kenworth T680, with the Freightliner driver being a 55-year-old man from Tucson, Arizona, and the Kenworth driver, a 41-year-old man from Pharr, Texas.

Thankfully, both drivers were reported to be wearing seatbelts and suffered no injuries in the crash. However, the WSP is investigating DUI as a possible contributing factor, which underscores the ongoing concerns regarding driver behavior on highways. Emergency services, including Todd’s Towing, were called to the scene to assist in removing the damaged vehicles, leading to a total closure of the highway for three hours and three minutes. While the incident did not result in injuries or fatalities, it serves as a reminder of the potential dangers on the roads. The community is left reflecting on the implications of such accidents and the need for heightened awareness regarding DUI and road safety.