Thurston County, Washington – Two Troopers Injured in Chase Involving Three Crashes

Thurston County, Washington (October 26, 2019) – Two troopers sustained injuries in a chase that involved three collisions over the course of its duration. One trooper sustained minor injuries in the second crash and another trooper was taken to Providence St. peter Hospital in Olympia for treatment of minor injuries. The suspect in the chase appears to be uninjured and has been arrested.

The incident began around 1:35 p.m. on northbound Interstate 5 at Maytown Road. A trooper clocked the suspect’s vehicle going at 110 miles per hour and while the driver initially pulled over, he later took off. The trooper tracked him down to his home using his license plate, and when troopers arrived around 2 p.m. the driver fled again. He cause his first crash at southbound Interstate 5, with a second crash at Old Highway 9 and Old Highway 99 that resulted in one trooper’s injuries. The final crash occurred on Highway 12 at Interstate 5, where the suspect collided with another trooper’s vehicle, resulting in one trooper getting injured. At the intersection of Highway 12 and Elderberry Street Southwest the suspect left his vehicle and fought troopers, but was arrested in the end. He is reported to have been arrested on suspicion of driving while impaired, having a suspended license and speeding.

About Vehicle Accidents

While this particular incident contains a criminal element, car accidents of common cause can be just as dangerous. In 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)  have reported a total of 120, 993 car accidents. Of those accidents, 525 were fatal and 34, 311 were possible or suspected of injuries. There are several types of collision that may happen, such as side collision, rollover collision, and head-on collision. Of the types of car accidents, head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous due to the circumstances – two cars are heading towards each other, with a great amount of force being experienced by all parties when the impact happens. While only 2% of car accidents are head-on collisions, they account for more than 10% of car-accident related injuries. These injuries are quite dangerous as most of them are head, spine or neck-related, including spinal injuries, brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and whiplash. Similarly, victims of side collisions and rollover collisions also suffer may also suffer head and neck injuries, though the risk is lower in these types of collisions. In rollover collisions, the car will come to rest on its side or roof, resulting in a dangerous situation which passengers might need to be extricated from. In side collisions, the greatest risk comes to the passenger on the particular side that received the impact. No matter the type of accident, all crashes are bound to cause a dreadful situation for all involved.

We urge all drivers to be careful while behind the wheel. When in a location where hazards such as poor illumination, rough roads or construction materials are present, be especially cautious. By doing this, we can ensure our safety as well as the safety of others in the nearby area.

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