RITZVILLE, Wash. – On Sunday afternoon a semi‑truck traveling north on US 395 near Ritzville was involved in a crash that forced the closure of the highway’s northbound lanes. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) confirmed the incident occurred just south of the city limits.
According to photos released by WSDOT, the collision caused a load of pineapples to spill onto the roadway, creating a hazardous situation for motorists. The department quickly deployed crews to clear the debris and assess the damage.
Detour in place
While crews work to restore normal traffic flow, WSDOT has established a detour for northbound travelers. Drivers are being directed to use Interstate 90 by way of State Route 21, which provides an alternate north‑south corridor through the region. Signage has been posted at the closure point and along the detour route to guide motorists.
WSDOT advises drivers to allow extra travel time and to exercise caution when navigating the detour, especially given the increased traffic on I‑90 and SR 21. The agency is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as the cleanup progresses.
Impact on the community
Ritzville residents rely on US 395 as a primary artery for commuting, freight movement, and access to nearby towns. The temporary closure has prompted concerns about delayed deliveries and longer travel times for commuters heading to Spokane, the Tri‑Cities, or other destinations along the corridor.
Local businesses have been notified of the detour and are encouraging customers to plan ahead. The Ritzville Chamber of Commerce expressed appreciation for WSDOT’s swift response and urged drivers to follow official guidance to keep the roadways safe.
Safety and next steps
WSDOT has not released a cause for the crash, stating that investigations are ongoing. The department’s priority is to clear the spilled fruit, repair any roadway damage, and reopen the northbound lanes as soon as it is safe to do so.
Motorists are asked to stay tuned to local radio stations, WSDOT’s website, and social media channels for real‑time updates. In the meantime, the detour via I‑90 and SR 21 remains the recommended route for northbound traffic.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
