Deadly Wrong Way Collision on Interstate 5 in Clark County, WA on November 21, 2024

On a late Thursday night, a tragic incident unfolded on Interstate 5 when Daren D. Bowlby, a 58-year-old man from Castle Rock, allegedly drove his white 2018 GMC pickup the wrong way in a southbound lane, leading to a catastrophic head-on collision with a semi-truck. The crash occurred near Lexington, with emergency responders arriving promptly around 11:25 p.m. Despite the quick response, the driver of the semi, Brian C. Campbell, 57, from Salem, Oregon, tragically succumbed to his injuries. He was rushed to PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center in Vancouver after suffering multiple fractures and cardiac arrest during transportation.

Authorities have charged Bowlby with vehicular homicide and driving under the influence, highlighting that alcohol played a significant role in the crash. Reports from the scene included observations of Bowlby's bloodshot eyes, flushed skin, and slurred speech. However, attempts to conduct a breathalyzer test were foiled by equipment malfunction. Despite being tested for sobriety, Bowlby declined some of the field sobriety tests offered. First responders faced a challenging rescue, taking nearly two hours to safely extricate Campbell from the wreckage using hydraulic cutters, known commonly as the jaws of life.

The collision had Bowlby's vehicle traveling northbound in a southbound lane, leading to the semi-truck rolling over and blocking an exit. Thankfully, Bowlby himself was unharmed, although he was taken to PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview for chest pains. Witnesses at the scene reported a strong smell of alcohol from Bowlby, which aligned with the suspicions of the responding officers.

It’s important for those involved in accidents in Clark County, WA, to understand the critical nature of obtaining an accident report. These reports are essential, as they serve as official documentation of the incident, crucial for insurance claims and any potential legal actions. Without this report, proving the facts of an accident and negotiating fair compensation can be significantly more challenging. Therefore, it's advisable to contact a local accident law firm for guidance and support as you navigate post-accident actions, insurance dealings, and protection of your rights. If you've experienced an accident, scheduling a consultation with a Clark County, WA injury attorney can provide the necessary direction in these difficult times. Call today!