The Pierce County Medical Examiner has identified Shane Ashlock, 51, of Tacoma, as the motorcyclist who tragically lost his life in a collision just before the Interstate 5 interchange.
According to the Medical Examiner’s office, Ashlock died from multiple blunt-force injuries sustained in the crash, and his manner of death was officially ruled an accident.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of August 5, around 5:15 p.m., as reported by a Washington State Patrol press release. Ashlock was riding southbound on the ramp from Interstate 705 when his motorcycle struck a barrier on the right shoulder. This collision happened at a critical junction where the road splits into two ramps—one leading to the State Route 7 extension and the other to northbound Interstate 5. After impact, the motorcycle came to rest between the right lane and the shoulder.
The crash caused significant traffic disruption, blocking the two right lanes of the ramp for nearly three hours—2 hours and 39 minutes—as emergency crews responded and the scene was cleared.
Ashlock’s untimely death has deeply affected the Tacoma community, where he was known as a local resident. His passing serves as a somber reminder of the dangers motorcyclists face on busy highways and the importance of roadway safety.
The Washington State Patrol continues to investigate the crash to determine the factors contributing to the accident.
Friends, family, and community members remember Shane Ashlock for his life and mourn the loss of a man taken too soon. The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s ruling and ongoing investigation will provide further clarity on the tragic event that claimed his life.
As the community processes this loss, thoughts and condolences go out to Shane Ashlock’s loved ones during this difficult time.
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