At 1:39 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 30, a serious three‑vehicle crash occurred on State Route 167 just north of the SR‑18 interchange in Auburn, Washington. The accident involved a black 2018 Tesla, a red 2023 Toyota Tacoma, and a 2007 Toyota Scion.
Sequence of events
According to a Washington State Patrol (WSP) memorandum, the Scion was traveling in an unknown lane when it lost control and struck the left jersey barrier. The vehicle came to a stop in lane two, the same lane occupied by the Tesla and the Tacoma.
WSP investigators believe the Scion driver exited the vehicle after the impact. The Tesla driver then collided with the stationary Scion and its driver, who was thrown onto the skip line separating lanes two and three. The Toyota Tacoma, traveling behind the Tesla in lane two, subsequently struck the driver as well.
After the collision, the Tesla came to rest on the left shoulder of the highway, the Tacoma on the right shoulder, and the Scion ended up in a ditch on the right side of the road.
Victims and charges
The driver of the Scion, a 33‑year‑old man from Tacoma, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Tesla driver, a 44‑year‑old man from Roy, was not wearing a seatbelt. He was transported to Valley Medical Center with injuries that required treatment. WSP has filed charges of vehicular homicide, hit‑and‑run, and driving under the influence against him.
The Tacoma driver, a 48‑year‑old man from Graham, was wearing his seatbelt and escaped physical harm, though his vehicle sustained damage.
Vehicle damage
Both the Scion and the Tesla were reported as total losses. The Tacoma, while damaged, remained operable.
Investigation and public safety reminder
Washington State Patrol continues to investigate the crash. Officials stress the importance of seatbelt use, especially during late‑night travel, and remind drivers that impaired driving carries severe legal consequences.
Residents traveling on SR‑167 are advised to remain alert for any lingering traffic disruptions and to follow any detour signage posted by local authorities.
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
