Gorst, WA (May 30, 2026) – A 44-year-old Tacoma woman was injured in a three-vehicle crash Friday evening on State Route 3 at Sunnyslope Road near Gorst. According to the Washington State Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 5:49 p.m.
Investigators said a 24-year-old Poulsbo man was traveling southbound on SR 3 when he lost control of his vehicle and struck a vehicle driven by a 29-year-old Belfair man. The Poulsbo driver then left the roadway, hit a guardrail, crossed the center line, and collided with the Tacoma woman’s northbound vehicle.
The injured woman was taken to a local hospital for treatment. State patrol officials said the vehicles driven by the Poulsbo man and the Tacoma woman were totaled, while the Belfair man’s vehicle sustained reportable damage. The Poulsbo driver is facing charges of driving under the influence and hit-and-run.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the wreck. We are thinking of the injured woman and wish her a full recovery.
How Impaired Driving Can Lead to Multi-Vehicle Collisions
Driving under the influence can affect judgment, reaction time, coordination, and the ability to maintain control of a vehicle. These impairments increase the likelihood of a driver drifting from a lane, misjudging traffic conditions, or losing control altogether.
When a vehicle crosses into opposing traffic, the risk of a serious collision rises significantly. Multi-vehicle crashes can occur when an initial impact sets off a chain reaction involving other motorists nearby. Investigators commonly review driver behavior, vehicle movements, roadway evidence, and witness statements when examining crashes where impairment is suspected. Public safety campaigns continue to emphasize the dangers of driving while impaired due to the heightened risk of injury and property damage.
