Pickup truck crashes into guardrail on 72nd Avenue

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A pickup truck traveling northbound on NE 72nd Avenue in Vancouver veered across the oncoming lane, struck a guardrail, and became stuck atop a Jersey barrier, preventing the vehicle from falling into Salmon Creek. The driver, the sole occupant, was transported to a local hospital for evaluation on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Firefighters had to remove the top of the vehicle to safely extricate the driver, and the roadway was closed for over an hour while the incident was cleared.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of safety barriers like Jersey barriers in preventing more serious crashes and potential loss of life. The closure of a major road also disrupted traffic in the area, underscoring the broader impact that such incidents can have on a community.

The details

According to the Clark County Sheriff's Office, the pickup truck was traveling northbound on NE 72nd Avenue when it veered across the oncoming lane and struck a guardrail. The vehicle then became stuck atop a Jersey barrier, which prevented it from falling into the nearby Salmon Creek. Firefighters from the Vancouver Fire Department had to remove the top of the vehicle to safely extricate the driver, who was the sole occupant. The driver was transported to a local hospital for evaluation on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

• The incident occurred just before noon on Friday, March 13, 2026.
• NE 72nd Avenue was closed for over an hour while the scene was cleared, reopening shortly after 1 p.m.

What’s next

The driver's case will be reviewed by the local prosecutor's office to determine if charges will be filed.