Clark Co., WA - Deadly Crash on I-5 near MP 11

Clark Co., WA (July 5, 2025) – A woman is dead and five others are injured after two separate but related crashes on southbound Interstate 5 early Saturday morning, July 5, in Clark County, according to the Washington State Patrol.

The first collision occurred shortly before 5 a.m. near milepost 11, when a white Chevrolet Trailblazer rear-ended a blue Nissan Versa in the far-right lane. The impact sent the Trailblazer skidding across the roadway and into a cable barrier on the left shoulder, where it came to rest. Meanwhile, the Versa veered off the freeway, crashing through a fence and coming to a stop on Northeast Delfel Road.

Tragically, a passenger in the Trailblazer died at the scene. Four others—including both drivers—were transported to a nearby hospital with injuries. 23-year-old Skylar Wainis of Longview drove the Trailblazer.

As authorities responded to the scene, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) closed three out of four lanes. A WSDOT truck was parked nearby to help guide traffic.

At around 7 a.m., a Rivian R1S traveling southbound crashed into the parked WSDOT vehicle, injuring a 45-year-old WSDOT employee who was inside. He was also taken to the hospital for treatment.

Both crashes remain under investigation, and charges are pending for the drivers involved.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased individual. We also wish a rapid recovery to the injured.

Washington Car Accidents

Every year, fatal car crashes shatter lives across Washington State. In 2023 alone, more than 800 people lost their lives in traffic accidents on Washington roads—part of a growing national trend that saw over 40,000 fatalities from motor vehicle collisions across the U.S.

The impact of these tragedies is far-reaching. Behind each statistic is a story—a parent, child, sibling, or friend whose life was cut short, often due to a moment of carelessness or a reckless decision behind the wheel. Driver negligence continues to be the leading cause of these deadly crashes. Whether it's speeding, texting while driving, driving under the influence, or simply falling asleep at the wheel, preventable behavior is at the heart of far too many fatal collisions.

Speed alone is a particularly deadly factor. In a single recent year, speed-related crashes claimed over 11,000 lives nationwide. When drivers disregard posted limits or fail to adjust for road conditions, the consequences can be catastrophic.

In Washington, densely traveled highways, rural roads, and changing weather conditions only add to the risks. Families left behind after a fatal crash are often burdened not only with grief but also with unexpected medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of financial and emotional support.

At Freeman Law Firm, we’re here to help families seek justice after the unimaginable. Our compassionate wrongful death attorneys understand the pain of losing a loved one and are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable. We help clients pursue compensation for funeral costs, lost income, emotional suffering, and other damages.

You don’t have to go through this alone. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call Freeman Law Firm today at 206-880-2454 to speak with our trusted legal team. Let us help you find answers, accountability, and a path forward after loss.