Tacoma, WA (December 20, 2025) – A Washington State Patrol trooper was killed after being struck by a vehicle on Thursday, December 19, near the Port of Tacoma. The crash happened on State Route 509 near milepost 2.
Witnesses said the trooper had stopped to investigate a two-vehicle collision just before 7:30 p.m. After parking her patrol car and stepping out to assess the scene, another vehicle traveling southbound struck her.
People nearby rushed to provide aid until emergency crews arrived. Despite their efforts, the trooper died at the scene from her injuries.
The driver who struck her stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Officers closed both directions of State Route 509 between Interstate 705 and Port of Tacoma Road for several hours while documenting evidence and clearing the roadway.
The Tacoma Police Department has taken over the criminal investigation and continues to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Washington
Pedestrian fatalities near major highways remain a serious concern throughout Washington. When a vehicle strikes someone on foot, the consequences are often devastating. Pedestrians have no protection from the force of a moving car, and even moderate-speed impacts can cause fatal injuries within seconds.
State data shows that fatal pedestrian crashes have continued to rise, especially in areas where high-speed roadways meet city streets. Some of the most common causes include:
- Fast-moving vehicles on highway corridors
- Poor lighting conditions during nighttime hours
- Limited visibility in work or emergency zones
- Driver distraction from phones or other devices
- Speeding through crash or construction areas
- Unfamiliar roadway conditions
- Adverse weather such as rain or fog
Emergency responders and officers face tremendous risks when working near active traffic lanes. Drivers may not see them in time or fail to react quickly enough to avoid a collision. Slowing down and staying alert when approaching flashing lights, crash scenes, or construction zones can prevent needless tragedy.
When a fatal pedestrian crash occurs, families often face overwhelming grief and uncertainty. During this time, speaking with an experienced wrongful death attorney who understands pedestrian accidents in Tacoma can make a meaningful difference. A skilled legal team can investigate the crash, identify those responsible, and seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and the emotional loss your family has suffered.
Insurance companies often move quickly after these crashes and may offer settlements that do not reflect the true impact of the loss. Having legal representation helps protect families from unfair treatment and ensures their claim is handled with care and attention.
If you lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian collision, Brain Injury Law of Seattle is here to help. Our compassionate team supports families at every step, explains their rights, and helps them seek justice. Call us at (425) 406-4872 today to schedule your free consultation.
Note:
This article is based on reports from publicly available sources, including news outlets, police dispatches, and eyewitness statements. The image(s) used are for illustrative purposes only and are sourced from publicly available materials where applicable. Brain Injury Law of Seattle has not independently verified every detail of the reported incident. While no artificial intelligence (AI) systems are used to generate the factual content of these articles, AI or automated tools may have been used in limited aspects of formatting, editing, or publishing. If you notice any errors or would like to request a correction or removal, please contact us, and we will respond promptly.
Disclaimer:
Accessing or reading this post does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Brain Injury Law of Seattle. The content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, we encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney. While we strive to report accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding its completeness or applicability.
