A man was arrested on suspicion of vehicular assault after his vehicle crossed the median of Interstate 5 at Federal Way and struck a sign post, injuring him and his passenger, according to the Washington State Patrol.
Also according to the State Patrol:
Jeffrey Gayton, 21, who is stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, was driving a 2003 BMW south about 4 a.m. Saturday when the crash happened. He suffered leg injuries and was taken to St. Francis Medical Center in Federal Way. Passenger Chhrick Christina Sumalatre, 29, of Fife, suffered severe internal injuries and was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.
Gayton was able to get out of the car and pull Sumalatre out before it became fully engulfed in flames.
Alcohol or drugs and high speeds are thought to have played a role in the crash. Detectives ask that anyone with information call 425-401-7742.
brian.sandford@thenewstribune.com
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