I-82 near Yakima reopened after military vehicles cause crash

I-82 near Yakima reopened after military vehicles cause crash

YAKIMA, Wash. – UPDATE March 11 12:30 p.m.

According to Washington State Patrol Lieutenant Dustin Drout, two military vehicles caused the crash with one colliding into the other.

At around 1:41 p.m. on March 6, the two trucks were heading eastbound on I-82 with one in front of the other. The truck that was second in line reportedly drove too quickly and attempted to get in the left lane to avoid hitting the other truck, however hit the rear left corner and rolled over.

The truck in front was shoved into the barrier of a bridge and blocked both lanes, damaging the guardrail and about 20 feet of bridge concrete.

Drout says it is unknown if anyone will be charged. The leftmost lane is currently closed.

Meagan Lott from the Washington State Department of Transportation says the concrete will be replaced soon, though the shoulder will remain closed for about three weeks for rail repairs.

UPDATE March 6 8:32 p.m.

The left lane of I-82 East is still closed due to bridge damage, according to the WSDOT Real Time Travel Map.

ORIGINAL COVERAGE

Eastbound Interstate 82 is currently closed at Exit 3 Thrall Road following a crash that is fully blocking the roadway at milepost 24 near Yakima.

Drivers are advised to use State Route 821, also known as Yakima River Canyon, as an alternative route between Ellensburg and Yakima.

Authorities are working to clear the scene and reopen the highway as soon as possible.

Travelers should plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes to avoid congestion.