Ellensburg, Washington – One Dead, Two Injured in Two-Vehicle Collision

Ellensburg, Washington (September 29, 2019) – One person died and two others remain in the hospital following a collision involving two vehicles on State Route 97 near Swauk Campground. Jacob McDonald from Ellensburg was taken to Central Washington Hospital, where he passed away from his injuries. The occupants of the other car, identified as Jeremy Long and April Long, were taken to the same hospital. There has been no word regarding their current condition.

The Washington State Patrol reported that McDonald was northbound on State Route 97 around 7 p.m. However, he lost control of his vehicle while driving, causing the car to end up in the southbound lane, where it was struck by the Longs’ vehicle. The Washington State Patrol determined that the cause of the accident was McDonald driving too fast given the road conditions.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only time a crash has resulted in a fatality. In 2017, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)  have reported a total of 120, 993 car accidents. Of those accidents, 525 were fatal and 34, 311 were possible or suspected of injuries. There are several types of collision that may happen, such as side collision, rollover collision, and head-on collision. Of the types of car accidents, head-on collisions are considered the most dangerous due to the circumstances – two cars are heading towards each other, with a great amount of force being experienced by all parties when the impact happens. While only 2% of car accidents are head-on collisions, they account for more than 10% of car-accident related injuries. These injuries are quite dangerous as most of them are head, spine or neck-related, including spinal injuries, brain injuries, paralysis, broken bones, and whiplash. Similarly, victims of side collisions and rollover collisions also suffer may also suffer head and neck injuries, though the risk is lower in these types of collisions. In rollover collisions, the car will come to rest on its side or roof, resulting in a dangerous situation which passengers might need to be extricated from. In side collisions, the greatest risk comes to the passenger on the particular side that received the impact. No matter the type of accident, all crashes are bound to cause a dreadful situation for all involved.

We urge all drivers to be careful while behind the wheel. When in a location where hazards such as poor illumination, rough roads or construction materials are present, be especially cautious. By doing this, we can ensure our safety as well as the safety of others in the nearby area.

[cta]