Lakewood, WA (January 24, 2025) – A tragic wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 near Lakewood claimed the life of a driver and led to the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect on DUI charges on January 24. 
Trooper John Dattilo of the Washington State Patrol said the incident occurred near milepost 127, close to the Lakewood south city limits. A red Honda, driven by the victim, was struck head-on by the wrong-way driver. The victim, a woman whose name has not been released, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The teenage suspect, who was driving the wrong-way vehicle, was unharmed and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. The roadway remained closed for several hours as investigators and rescue crews worked the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Trooper John Dattilo of the Washington State Patrol said the incident occurred near milepost 127, close to the Lakewood south city limits. A red Honda, driven by the victim, was struck head-on by the wrong-way driver. The victim, a woman whose name has not been released, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The teenage suspect, who was driving the wrong-way vehicle, was unharmed and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. The roadway remained closed for several hours as investigators and rescue crews worked the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.