Authorities are investigating a deadly drive-by shooting that occurred Thursday evening along northbound State Route 167 near Auburn, prompting a significant law enforcement response and temporary highway closures.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) confirmed the shooting took place just north of Ellingson Road near milepost 12. The incident left one person dead and triggered an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal gunfire.
Witnesses reported seeing two possible suspect vehicles fleeing the scene, though detailed descriptions remain limited. Troopers have since issued a lookout for a 1990s to 1995 red or maroon Ford Explorer and a 2018 to 2020 silver Subaru BRZ, both of which are believed to be connected to the shooting.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, including WSP troopers, local fire crews, and aid units. Initial reports of the incident were posted by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) at 7:50 p.m., alerting drivers to a blockage in the right lane.
By 8:13 p.m., WSDOT confirmed that fire and law enforcement personnel were on scene and urged motorists to proceed with caution and prepare for traffic delays.
At 8:35 p.m., all northbound lanes on SR 167 at milepost 12 in the Pacific area were fully closed as WSP launched a formal investigation. Drivers were advised to seek alternate routes due to the extended delays.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage related to the shooting to contact the Washington State Patrol. The investigation remains active as troopers work to identify suspects and determine a motive.
