Semi loses load of lumber on I-5 in Everett, blocks lanes

EVERETT, Wash. — A semi-truck lost its load of lumber after it rolled over on southbound I-5 in Everett during a crash involving three cars Friday morning.

PHOTOS: Rolled over semi, load of lumber block I-5

It happened shortly after 6 a.m. near Pacific Avenue and closed two I-5 lanes which have since reopened.

However, the onramp from Pacific Avenue to southbound I-5 remains blocked by the spilled lumber and as of 8:30 a.m., troopers said it was expected to be closed for 5 or 6 more hours as crews stack lumber and work to clear the scene.

The semi's trailer ended up on an embankment adjacent to the ramp, and the lumber ended up on the median between the freeway and the ramp and on the actual onramp.

Troopers said three cars crashed first and then the semi rolled over. It is not yet known if the semi driver was trying to avoid the crash.

The driver of the semi and one driver of a passenger car were taken to the hospital.

Washington State Department of Transportation crews are at the scene.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Cox Media Group