![Wrong-Way Crash on Interstate 5 Kills Rebecca Hantho [Battle Ground, WA]](https://sweetlaw.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Wrong_Way_Sign-1024x768.jpg)
La Center Woman Killed in Tragic Crash on I-5 Identified
Battle Ground, WA (March 20, 2026) — 40-year-old Rebecca Hantho of La Center lost her life in a tragic wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 earlier this month.
According to authorities, Hantho was driving a 2018 Ford Focus northbound on I-5 near the Battle Ground exit when a vehicle traveling the wrong direction struck her head-on near Milepost 11.
Meanwhile, the other driver, identified as 30-year-old Ruben E. Hernandez of Portland, had been traveling southbound in the northbound lanes in a 2025 Toyota Corolla.
The violent collision claimed Hantho’s life at the scene, along with the other driver.
The crash shut down all northbound lanes of I-5 for several hours as authorities investigated and cleared the roadway.
Officials have not determined whether impairment played a role in the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Sweet Lawyers extends heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Rebecca F. Hantho. Losing a loved one in a sudden and tragic crash is devastating, and we hope her family finds strength, comfort, and support during this difficult time.
File a Legal Claim Following a Deadly Crash
Each year, around 20-50 million people get involved in road accidents. However, not everyone properly knows about the things you should do next after a deadly traffic accident.
In fact, the most valuable step you can take in response to a fatal traffic crash is hiring an expert attorney.
Moreover, the legal and financial damage that comes from unforeseen loss is tough to juggle in the midst of mourning. Yet, the days and months following a tragedy are the most precarious.
Nobody wants to be in a fatal accident. To those who lost a loved one in a traffic accident, reach out to Sweet Lawyers‘ team of legal experts.
With over 40 years of experience in the legal field, we know what it takes to win an auto-pedestrian accident case.
Additionally, Sweet Lawyers promise that our attorneys will fight, day and night, to achieve the justice and compensation that you and your family deserve.
Call our offices at (800) 674-7852 for a free consultation with a professional in your area. Speak with our legal team to know how a legal claim can help you cope.
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