Multi-Vehicle Hit-and-Run Shuts Down Kent Highway

Northbound SR 167 reopened after crash involving 5 cars and fleeing driver.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:20pm

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An extreme close-up of a damaged car side mirror, the harsh flash illuminating the gritty, textured surface and conveying a sense of the sudden, investigative nature of this crime scene.A recent wave of hit-and-run crashes on a major Kent highway exposes the dangers of fleeing the scene and the need for greater accountability.Kent Today

A multi-vehicle collision on northbound SR 167 in Kent, Washington resulted in the highway being fully blocked on Sunday, April 12. The crash involved five vehicles and was classified as a hit-and-run, with the driver believed to have caused the incident fleeing the scene on foot. Authorities reported injuries but none were life-threatening, and the highway was eventually reopened after tow trucks cleared the scene.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents can pose a serious threat to public safety, leaving victims without recourse and creating dangerous road conditions. This crash on a major regional highway in Kent highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing such crimes and the disruption they can cause for commuters.

The details

According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash on northbound SR 167 at South 180th Street involved five vehicles and was classified as a hit-and-run. The driver believed to have caused the collision fled the scene on foot and remained at large as of the initial response. Authorities said there were injuries reported but none were considered life-threatening.

  • The crash occurred on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
  • Northbound lanes were fully blocked as crews responded to the incident.
  • The highway was eventually reopened after tow trucks cleared the scene, though no initial estimated time for reopening was available.

The players

Washington State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the hit-and-run crash on SR 167.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)

The state agency that manages and maintains the highway system, including providing real-time travel updates and advisories.

Trooper Rick Johnson

A spokesperson for the Washington State Patrol who provided details about the crash and ongoing investigation.

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What they’re saying

“NB 167 is completely blocked just south of 180th for a 5 car injury hit and run collision. Causing driver fled on foot and is still at large. Tow trucks on the way. No ETA for reopening at this time. No life-threatening injuries.”

— Trooper Rick Johnson, Spokesperson, Washington State Patrol

What’s next

Authorities are continuing to search for the driver who fled the scene, and the Washington State Patrol is investigating the incident further.

The takeaway

This hit-and-run crash on a major highway in Kent highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing such crimes, which can disrupt traffic, endanger public safety, and leave victims without recourse. The incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between agencies to improve road safety and hold offenders accountable.