Wrong-Way Tragedy on I-5: Two Drivers Killed in Head-On Collision Near Ridgefield Early Monday

Wrong-Way Tragedy on I-5: Two Drivers Killed in Head-On Collision Near Ridgefield Early Monday.

A tragic wrong-way crash early Monday morning on Interstate 5 near Ridgefield, Washington claimed the lives of two drivers, according to the Washington State Patrol.

Authorities say the collision occurred in the northbound lanes of the interstate during the early morning hours, when a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction struck another car head-on. Investigators identified one of the drivers as 40-year-old Rebecca F. Hantho of La Center, Washington.

According to preliminary findings, Hantho was driving a 2018 Ford Focus southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 5 when her vehicle collided directly with an oncoming 2025 Toyota Corolla. The second vehicle was being driven by a 30-year-old man from Portland, Oregon, whose identity has not yet been publicly released pending notification of family members.

The impact of the crash was severe, and both vehicles sustained catastrophic damage. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but despite their efforts, both drivers were pronounced dead at the site of the collision.

Authorities temporarily closed portions of the interstate as troopers conducted an investigation and crews worked to clear the wreckage. The closure caused traffic delays in the area as investigators documented the scene and gathered evidence.

Officials with the Washington State Patrol are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the wrong-way driving incident. Factors such as impairment, driver confusion, or other contributing elements have not yet been confirmed.

The tragic crash serves as a somber reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on the road. Community members and loved ones are mourning the sudden loss of two individuals whose lives ended in a devastating moment on the highway. 🚔🕊️