At least 1 killed in 3-car crash in Issaquah

ISSAQUAH, Wash. - Washington State Patrol is investigating a deadly three-car crash that happened on SR 18 near Issaquah on Wednesday.

The crash was reported around 7 p.m. on Issaquah/Hobart Road near I-90.

According to WSP, the causing driver crossed the centerline traveling eastbound and struck two other vehicles. That driver died.

The extent of any other injuries is unknown.

That portion of SR 18 was closed for three hours and 28 minutes while troopers investigated.

Troubles on SR 18

SR 18 is one lane in each direction through this area near Tiger Mountain for the 27,000 vehicles that use the highway each day.

A serious collision in the single-lane sections can require one or both directions of the highway to close until it is cleared. Although other segments of the highway between Auburn and Maple Valley have been improved, this segment continues to experience congestion, the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) said on its website.

According to WSDOT, SR 18 has experienced frequent congestion and collisions for decades.

In an effort to cut down on collisions and congestion, $665 million was invested in construction for the highway from the Move Ahead Washington transportation budget.

"We are receiving construction funding from the 2022 Move Ahead Washington transportation package and preparing to widen a 5-mile section of SR 18 between Issaquah-Hobart Road and Deep Creek.," WSDOT said.

The construction projects would create: