Suspected DUI flees, leading to head-on collision on I-5

On July 21, Thurston County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) deputies pursued a driver suspected of driving while under the influence (DUI) whose actions sent him and another driver to the hospital.  

According to the TCSO post, the incident began when a TCSO deputy attempted to stop a driver on Old Pacific Highway SE who was suspected of driving under the influence due to excessive speed and swerving into oncoming traffic lanes. 

Jeromy Lee Woodward-Williamson, 41, is said to have evaded the initial traffic stop, sparking a pursuit that crossed county lines.  

The suspect, later suspected as a DUI offender, sped the vehicle southbound on I-5, with law enforcement in pursuit.  

“While entering the freeway, the fleeing driver crossed all lanes of travel and struck another motorist,” TCSO stated. 

Both motorists were reported to be in stable condition and were transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation and treatment. 

Following medical clearance, Woodward-Williamson was taken into custody and booked into Thurston County Jail for attempting to elude law enforcement, and driving under the influence.  

Meanwhile, the vehicle driven by the suspect was impounded.