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News brief: Driver inattention blamed for I-5 wreck, mess

2016.0614.semiravi5 [1]

Interstate 5 near Lewis-Thurston county line. / Courtesy photo by Riverside Fire Authority

By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter

The fire department reported two victims with minor injuries in a freeway collision that left a semi on its side with its trailer stuck on the center barrier this morning.

It happened about 9 a.m. in the southbound lanes of Interstate 5 north of Centralia.

Almost three hours later when the vehicles were cleared from the roadway, motorists were advised delays would continue because traffic was backed up for at least six miles.

According to the Washington State Patrol, the 55-year-old driver of a 2002 International box truck and trailer failed to slow for a Toyota RAV4 which had slowed for traffic.

They blamed driver inattention.

Craig M. Maxey, of Beaverton, Oregon, was cited for second-degree negligent driving, according to the state patrol. His truck was totaled.

The RAV4 which was struck in its rear, with Annette F. Rose, 55, of Stanwood, behind the wheel, was able to be driven away from the scene, the investigating trooper reports.