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AUBURN, King County, Wash., Oct. 30, 2026 — A driver was killed early on Thursday morning, October 29, after a three-vehicle crash shut down southbound State Route 167 near SR 18 in Auburn. The Washington State Patrol said one driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI and vehicular homicide.
The crash happened around 1:39 a.m. just north of the SR 18 interchange. Troopers said a 33-year-old Tacoma man driving a Toyota Scion lost control, struck the left Jersey barrier and came to a stop in a traffic lane. Investigators believe he then got out of his car.
A Tesla driven by a 44-year-old Roy man struck the Toyota and the man standing near it, the agency reported. The man was then struck by a third vehicle, according to the state patrol, and landed between two lanes of traffic. He died at the scene; his name has not been released.
The Tesla driver was hurt and taken to Valley Medical Center for treatment. The driver of the third vehicle, a 48-year-old Graham man, was not injured. Investigators believe drugs or alcohol may have been a factor in the crash, and the Tesla driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI, hit-and-run, and vehicular homicide. Southbound SR 167 was closed for about five hours while the state patrol worked the scene.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
Intersection Crashes in Washington
This fatal crash happened at State Route 167 and SR-18 in Auburn, WA. Our Washington intersections page covers intersection crashes across Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does seat belt use matter so much?
A seat belt keeps occupants from being thrown from or within the vehicle during a crash, which greatly lowers the risk of fatal injury in a collision. It does not protect a pedestrian or a driver standing outside a car, as in this crash.
What should families do after a fatal crash?
Families can request the official crash report from the investigating agency, which in Washington is typically available through the State Patrol once the investigation is far enough along to release it. Many also contact the county medical examiner's office for details on an autopsy or death certificate.
How are fatal crashes investigated?
Agencies like the Washington State Patrol typically document the scene, interview witnesses, and may use data from vehicle systems to reconstruct how the crash occurred. Investigators also determine whether impairment, speed, or other factors contributed.
How long do fatal-crash investigations take?
Timelines vary widely. Some conclusions, like an arrest, can come within hours, but a complete investigation, including toxicology results, can take several weeks or longer before charges are finalized.
