RICHLAND, WA — The trial of former Washington state trooper Sarah L. Clasen for vehicular homicide has been rescheduled to February 22, 2024, according to her defense attorney.
Originally set for November 16, 2023, this postponement marks the fifth delay in the proceedings related to the March 2025 death of 20-year-old Jhoser Sachez Vega. Clasen, who was off duty at the time of the incident, faces charges stemming from a collision involving her Kia Telluride and a motorcycle on Highway 240.
Authorities reported that Vega was transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center following the crash but succumbed to his injuries. Clasen was initially interviewed at the scene by Richland Police Officer Steve Heid, who later expressed concerns regarding her sobriety. She declined a preliminary breath test and was arrested. Toxicology results indicated her blood-alcohol content was 0.17%, more than double the legal limit, when tested six hours post-accident.
Clasen, who had spent time at a bar with her husband before the crash, initially misled investigators about her whereabouts that night. Following the ongoing investigation, her case was transferred to Spokane County to prevent conflicts of interest. Six months after the incident, she was charged with DUI vehicular homicide, pleading not guilty, and remains free without bail.
Clasen resigned from her position with the Washington State Patrol in April 2023. She is expected to appear in court again in late January for further pre-trial matters.