KENNEWICK, WA — A series of fatal crashes occurred in the Yakima and Tri-Cities areas over the weekend, prompting heightened concerns from the Washington State Patrol.
The incidents coincided with the beginning of summer travel, which typically sees an increase in fatal collisions. According to authorities, a crash on Interstate 82 near Yakima resulted in the death of 27-year-old Zachary Cline of Selah when his vehicle struck a guardrail. In separate incidents earlier in the week, a pedestrian was killed by a semi-truck near Union Gap, and 76-year-old Teresa Weers died in Richland after a semi ran a red light.
Troopers indicated that the crashes exhibited different causes, such as excessive speed and failure to obey traffic signals, but did not suggest a singular larger issue. With the influx of summer drivers, including motorcyclists, the Washington State Patrol has deployed additional resources to curb fatalities.
According to Trooper Daniel Mosqueda, one out of every four accidents in Washington involves distracted driving. The state’s Surviving Summer campaign will include increased patrols, specialized units, and specific tactics to identify aggressive drivers. “We are looking for distracted and dangerous drivers,” Mosqueda stated.
Additionally, the Aggressive Driving Apprehension Team will use unmarked vehicles for enforcement, aiming to address DUI incidents and ensure safer roadways. The Washington State Patrol is urging drivers to remain vigilant, slow down, and buckle up this summer, especially during busy weekend nights.