DuPont, WA (May 30, 2026) – A 45-year-old Tacoma man was injured in a two-vehicle crash early Saturday morning on southbound Interstate 5 near DuPont. According to the Washington State Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 3:12 a.m. near milepost 119, the exit for Steilacoom-DuPont Road.
Investigators said both vehicles were traveling in the same lane when a 30-year-old Lacey man left the roadway and struck an attenuator. The vehicle then reentered traffic and came to rest in lane three. The Tacoma driver later struck debris in the roadway and came to rest partially in lane three and on the left shoulder.
The Tacoma man was taken to a hospital for treatment. Information regarding the extent of his injuries was not released. Authorities said the southbound roadway was blocked for about 90 minutes following the collision.
The Lacey driver is facing a charge of driving under the influence. Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the wreck. We are thinking of the injured man and wish him a speedy recovery.
What Is an Attenuator and Why Is It Used on Highways?
An attenuator is a safety device installed along highways to absorb energy during a vehicle strike. These structures are commonly placed near exits, bridge supports, construction zones, and other fixed hazards to reduce the severity of a collision.
When a vehicle hits an attenuator, the device is designed to crumple or compress, helping to lessen the force transferred to vehicle occupants. Although attenuators can reduce injury risk, secondary hazards may still develop if damaged vehicles or debris remain in travel lanes. Investigators often examine roadway evidence, vehicle positions, and driver behavior when determining how a highway crash unfolded, particularly when impairment is suspected as a contributing factor.
