Tacoma Man Arrested After High-Speed Crash on I-5

Driver hit 102 mph, fought with troopers before being booked into jail

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A 30-year-old Tacoma man was arrested after he was clocked traveling at 102 mph on southbound I-5, crashed into another vehicle, and then fought with responding Washington State Patrol troopers before being taken into custody.

Why it matters

High-speed chases and crashes can put the public at serious risk, and this incident highlights the dangers of reckless driving and the need for strict enforcement of traffic laws to protect public safety on Washington's roadways.

The details

The driver eventually lost control of his vehicle near the Port of Tacoma Road exit, crashing into another car and hitting the center median. The other motorist was injured in the collision and taken to a hospital. The Tacoma man then got into a physical altercation with one of the responding troopers before being restrained and arrested.

  • The incident occurred just after 9 a.m. on Friday morning.
  • The crash blocked all lanes of southbound I-5, causing a traffic backup of nearly 4 miles.

The players

Washington State Patrol Trooper Kameron Watts

A Washington State Patrol trooper who responded to the scene and was involved in the physical altercation with the suspect.

30-year-old Tacoma man

The driver who was clocked traveling at 102 mph, crashed, and fought with troopers before being arrested and booked into jail.

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What they’re saying

“All lanes were blocked due to the collision, and the fight. The combative man had to be restrained, and was taken into custody.”

— Trooper Kameron Watts, Washington State Patrol Trooper (97rockonline.com)

What’s next

The suspect is expected to face charges of DUI, reckless driving, eluding, and resisting arrest.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of high-speed driving and the importance of responsible behavior on the roads. It also highlights the challenges law enforcement face in dealing with reckless and combative drivers who put the public at risk.