Available 
TACOMA, Pierce County, Wash., Oct. 18, 2026 — Two drivers were hurt Saturday afternoon, October 17, when a DUI hit-and-run crash shut down part of State Route 16 near the Jackson Avenue exit in Tacoma, Washington State Patrol said.
Troopers said both vehicles were headed westbound on SR-16 in the lane closest to the Jackson Avenue off-ramp when one car struck the other. The vehicle blamed for the crash came to rest in the lane it had been traveling in, while the second vehicle ended up on the right shoulder. The collision blocked the roadway for about two hours and ten minutes.
Both drivers were taken to St. Joseph Medical Center with injuries. Both cars were considered total losses, troopers said.
Washington State Patrol identified the driver of the first vehicle as Andrea Middleton, 37, and said she was charged with DUI, hit and run, and obstruction. Investigators determined impaired driving caused the crash.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Tacoma, WA
This crash happened on SR-16 in Tacoma, WA. We cover crashes across Pierce County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Pierce County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does alcohol affect a driver's ability to react?
Alcohol slows reaction time, narrows focus, and affects judgment of speed and distance, making it harder to respond to sudden hazards like slowing traffic near an exit.
What times of day see the most impaired-driving crashes?
These crashes are more common at night and especially late on weekends, though they can happen at any hour, including daytime as seen in this case.
Is driving after just a drink or two actually risky?
Yes. Even blood alcohol levels below the legal limit can slow reflexes and impair coordination enough to cause a crash.
How can someone avoid driving after drinking?
Planning ahead with a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi before drinking starts is the most reliable way to avoid getting behind the wheel impaired.
What to Do After a DUI Hit-and-Run Crash in Tacoma, WA
If you're involved in a hit-and-run, try to move to a safe location and call 911 right away. Note any details you can about the other vehicle, such as color, direction of travel, or partial plate information, since this can help investigators later. Even if injuries seem minor at first, get checked by a medical provider, as some injuries from a collision don't show symptoms immediately. Keep copies of any police reports or medical records, and follow up with Washington State Patrol if you remember additional details after the fact. Reporting the crash promptly, even for minor damage, protects your ability to document what happened.
