Semi-Truck Driver Killed in Fatal Crash on I-5 in Federal Way
Seattle Today Newsroom
July 29, 2026
Semi-Truck Driver Killed in Fatal Crash on I-5 in Federal Way
Picture Credit: Bhargav Panchal
On Tuesday morning, the Washington State Patrol reported a two vehicle collision, causing the death of a semi truck driver at the northbound Interstate 5 near Federal Way Rest Area. The crash was recorded to have taken place shortly before 10 a.m., forcing the closure of two right lanes and causing significant traffic delays during the morning commute.
Several investigators have stated that the collision happened after a passenger vehicle slowed for traffic ahead. The semi-truck driver was unable to stop in time and crashed into the rear of the vehicle. Authorities confirmed the truck driver died at the scene, while the driver of the passenger vehicle was not seriously injured.
The Washington State Patrol said the semi-truck driver was not wearing a seatbeltat the time of the crash, a factor investigators noted during their preliminary findings. Troopers continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, and no indications of impairment have been reported.
The crash shut down multiple northbound lanes of I-5 for several hours as emergency crews cleared the wreckage and investigators processed the scene. Traffic backed up for miles before all lanes were reopened later in the afternoon, restoring normal traffic flow through the Federal Way area.
