LACEY, Wash. — Three people were hospitalized after a car hauler, a school bus, and six cars crashed into each other.
The crash happened Thursday morning on I-5 near Martin Way East in Lacey.
The driver of this car hauler was arrested. According to troopers, the person was driving a commercial vehicle without having a valid Commercial Drivers License.
Troopers say the cause of the crash was “speeds too fast for conditions,” which caused the semi truck to lose control and jackknife.
No children were on the bus.
The crash blocked all northbound lanes for some time, and according to the Washington State Department of Transportation, backups stretched to about five miles during the morning commute.
By 9:15 a.m., WSDOT confirmed that all lanes had reopened, though it would take time for traffic to clear.
All lanes are open now on I-5 NB near Martin Way in @CityofLacey. Thank you for your patience folks! It will take time for traffic to clear. pic.twitter.com/FlEW8AAMzQ
— WSDOT Tacoma (@wsdot_tacoma) December 4, 2025
All lanes are blocked on I-5 NB in @CityofLacey for a crash involving a jackknifed semi carrying vehicles. Traffic is being diverted at Martin Way. Current backup is 5 miles. Use alternate routes. Real time info at https://t.co/HUGa1WTJfY pic.twitter.com/5K1ZBYfKcT
— WSDOT Tacoma (@wsdot_tacoma) December 4, 2025
This is due to a collision involving a car hauler, school bus, and an unknown amount of other vehicles. There are several complaints of injuries.
— Trooper Kameron Watts (@wspd1pio) December 4, 2025
FYI, there are not kids on the bus. Troopers have just arrived on scene and more details are being gathered. https://t.co/a9YvxDIitY
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