Brewster, Washington – One Dead, Two Others Injured in Two-Vehicle Collision at SR 97

Brewster, Washington (October 22, 2019) – Update: One driver was reported to have been killed in a two-vehicle collision at State Route 97 near the junction at State Route 17. The victim, identified as Peggy Anne Griffin from Manson, was pronounced dead on the scene. The driver of the other vehicle, identified as Kai Michael Marcellay, and a passenger from his vehicle were reported to have been taken to Three Rivers Hospital following the accident. There has been no further word regarding their condition.

According to the report from the Washington State Patrol, the incident happened on Tuesday morning.  Marcellay was reported to have performed an illegal pass, which resulted in the crash. Marcellay is also reported to be facing charges of DUI and vehicular homicide. The incident caused State Route 97 to be closed for roughly four hours as investigation was ongoing.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only known fatality involved with a case of an impaired driver. According to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 29 people die everyday from vehicle accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver, which translates to a death every 50 minutes. Additionally, 2016 data also points to 28% of all traffic-related deaths in America. Driving under influence covers not only alcohol-impaired drivers, but also those under the influence of other substances. Drugs other than alcohol accounted for 16% of vehicle crashes in 2015 data. Marijuana use in particular is rising, with 13% of nighttime weekends drivers being found with marijuana in their system. Whether impaired by alcohol, narcotics, or any other substances, the dangers of driving under influence should be clear. Driving is an activity that requires awareness at all times and following street regulations as much as possible. Being under the influence of other substances brings down road awareness, as well as closing down reflex skills and attention.

We urge everyone to be in a stable health condition before going behind the wheel. Any condition that can cause impairments on your judgement puts many people at risk, which goes not only for drivers but pedestrians as well. Aside from the obvious dangers of drunk driving, it would also help to identify busy roads and try to avoid being in their proximity to minimize any risk of a vehicle accident. Any mistake can lead to injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well. Our sympathies and compassion for anyone who was caught up in a vehicle accident due to intoxicated drivers.

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