Investigation shows deceased driver’s speeding may have caused multiple vehicle collision

A multiple-car collision may have been caused by a speeding driver who lost control of their vehicle on March 9 at about 11 a.m.

The car reported as fleeing from the multiple collision incident at the 9900 block of Bridge Road SE last March 9 was not cleared of involvement, contrary to authorities’ initial investigation.

This was cleared by the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) in a recent news release.

This incident claimed the life of one driver and is under investigation by the Yelm Police Department.

The investigation led to the discovery of security camera footage showing the event that led to the collision.

Although the footage didn't capture the collision itself due to obstructions by trees, it indicated that the deceased driver was traveling at a higher speed than the other vehicles, leading to the fatal crash and the vehicle veering off-road.

The analysis of vehicle evidence corroborated this sequence of events.

Initially, suspicion fell on an individual believed to have fled the scene, but after being located and interviewed, the driver was cleared of any involvement or causing the collision.

While the incident was initially treated as a homicide investigation, an examination concluded that no charges would be brought forth to the prosecutor's office regarding the collision.

Investigators have maintained contact with the family of the deceased throughout the process, keeping them informed of the progress and the result of the investigation.