The Washington State Patrol is investigating after a log truck merging onto U.S. 101 from southbound I-5 left the roadway and landed on Deschutes Parkway below. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
Tumwater Fire Department Battalion Chief Brad Ridgeway said units were dispatched at 9:21 a.m. Wednesday. The log truck was heading south to merge onto U.S. 101 north at Exit 104 left the roadway on the left side of the road and landed on Deschutes Parkway on its side. The cab sustained heavy damage, he said.
Ridgeway said it’s unclear why the driver left the roadway. He said some bystanders who saw the accident stopped and helped to get the driver out of the cab. They were assisted by fire and medical personnel, who then attempted CPR and other-life saving efforts, but were unsuccessful.
Ridgeway said Deschutes Parkway is closed while WSP investigates, and at least one lane of the 101 ramp was still closed at lunchtime.
