A semi-truck carrying corn on the cob tipped into a ditch on Thursday morning, spilling cargo across a southbound I-5 exit ramp [1].
The incident caused significant traffic disruptions near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, a critical military installation, forcing commuters to find alternative routes during the morning rush.
The crash occurred at the southbound I-5 exit ramp to Thorne Lane, identified as exit 123 [1, 3]. Investigators said the driver was drowsy, which led to a loss of control and the subsequent spill [2]. Ears of corn were scattered across the roadway, rendering the ramp impassable.
Washington State Patrol investigators responded to the scene to manage the cleanup and assess the vehicle [1]. Officials closed exit 123 [3] to ensure safety while crews worked to remove the agricultural debris. To mitigate the congestion, traffic was diverted to exits 120 and 122 [4].
Despite the impact of the truck and the resulting blockage, no injuries were reported [2]. The driver remained at the scene as authorities processed the cause of the accident.
Local transportation officials monitored the flow of traffic around the Lakewood area throughout the morning. The closure of a primary exit ramp near a major base typically creates a ripple effect of delays on adjacent surface streets and highway segments.
“A semi-truck carrying corn on the cob tipped into a ditch”
This incident highlights the vulnerability of major transit corridors like I-5 to driver fatigue, especially when transporting bulk agricultural goods. The proximity to Joint Base Lewis-McChord amplifies the impact of such crashes, as any closure of key exit ramps can disrupt the movement of military personnel and civilian contractors.
