Semi driver killed after crashing into bridge columns on I-5 near Tumwater

A semi-truck driver was killed after crashing into the support columns of a bridge Monday morning on Interstate 5 near Tumwater.

According to the Washington State Patrol, southbound I-5 was closed just before 8:00 a.m. at milepost 97 near 113th Ave SW.

The left lane reopened just before 10 a.m., but the backup on I-5 South had grown to seven miles.

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  (Washington State Patrol)

Troopers said the driver may have suffered a medical emergency as the semi veered off of the road and into the bridge support columns.

The semi was leaking diesel and the overpass needs to be inspected. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

Troopers said to avoid the area if possible. Check our live traffic map here.

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