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FEDERAL WAY, King County, Wash., Nov. 1, 2026 — One person died, and two others were seriously hurt on Saturday afternoon, October 31, when a truck slammed into several stopped vehicles near South 356th Street and Pacific Highway South.
The crash happened just after 2 p.m. near the intersection. A 69-year-old man driving a truck southbound reportedly failed to stop for traffic that had already halted and struck multiple stationary vehicles, according to the Federal Way Police Department.
One driver who was hit by the truck died at the scene. Two other people were taken to a hospital with serious injuries. The extent of their injuries beyond "serious" has not been released.
The police said the truck driver appeared to be impaired at the time of the crash. He was arrested on charges of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault, according to the Federal Way Police Department. The Federal Way Major Accident Investigation Team has taken over the investigation, which remains active.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
Intersection Safety in Washington
The fatal crash was reported at South 356th Street and Pacific Highway in Federal Way. Readers following crash news in King County can find more about intersections across the state on our guide to Washington intersections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are a truck's blind spots, and why do they matter?
Large trucks have wide blind spots along both sides, behind the trailer, and directly in front of the cab. Vehicles in these zones may be invisible to the driver, which can contribute to crashes when a truck changes lanes, turns, or fails to register stopped traffic ahead.
What is an underride crash?
An underride crash happens when a smaller vehicle slides partly or fully beneath a truck's trailer during a collision, usually in a rear-end or side-impact situation. These crashes can cause severe injury because the trailer strikes the passenger compartment directly.
What usually causes large-truck accidents?
Common factors include driver fatigue, distraction, impaired driving, mechanical failure, and failing to stop or slow for traffic ahead. Investigators typically review vehicle data, witness accounts, and roadway conditions to determine a cause in each case.
How can drivers share the road with trucks more safely?
Giving trucks extra following distance, avoiding lingering beside or behind a trailer, and anticipating wider turns can reduce the chance of a collision.
