STEVENS PASS, Wash. — Tragic Two-Vehicle Crash on U.S. Highway 2 Claims Two Lives; Investigation Underway
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Sunday afternoon along U.S. Highway 2 at Stevens Pass, when a two-vehicle collision claimed the lives of two individuals from Gold Bar, Washington, and left another person injured. According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), the fatal crash occurred amid slick and hazardous driving conditions, a reminder of how quickly travel through the mountain pass can turn devastating.
Authorities report that the crash involved a Subaru Crosstrek and a Ford F-150 pickup truck. Preliminary findings indicate that the Subaru lost control while traveling along the winding highway, crossing the center line and colliding head-on with the Ford. The impact was severe, leaving both vehicles with catastrophic damage and prompting an immediate emergency response from law enforcement, fire crews, and paramedics stationed near the pass.
Inside the Ford were 48-year-old Humberto Guerra and 45-year-old Zoraida Guerra, both residents of Othello, Washington. The Washington State Patrol confirmed that Humberto was not injured, while Zoraida sustained injuries, the extent of which remains unclear at this time. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and evaluation.
Tragically, the two occupants of the Subaru Crosstrek, both from Gold Bar, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their names have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin. Troopers described the scene as “extremely difficult,” with wreckage strewn across both lanes and emergency responders working tirelessly to assist survivors and secure the area.
Traffic on Highway 2 was shut down for several hours as investigators reconstructed the crash and crews worked to clear the wreckage from the roadway. Drivers in the area were diverted as WSP’s Collision Technical Specialist Team gathered evidence to determine the precise cause of the collision. Authorities believe that speed and wet road conditions may have contributed to the Subaru’s loss of control, though the investigation remains ongoing.
For the small community of Gold Bar, news of the fatal crash has been devastating. Friends and neighbors have expressed profound grief over the sudden loss of two lives, describing the victims as kind-hearted and deeply rooted in their local community. “It’s just tragic,” said one local resident. “They were good people who loved the mountains and the outdoors. It’s heartbreaking to think they were lost on a road they’d traveled so many times before.”
Meanwhile, in Othello, family and friends of Humberto and Zoraida Guerra are holding them in their thoughts and prayers. Humberto, described as hardworking and devoted to his family, is said to be physically unharmed but emotionally shaken. Loved ones have shared that Zoraida remains under medical care, with hopes that she will make a full recovery.
The Washington State Patrol is urging motorists to exercise extreme caution when traveling through the mountain passes, particularly during the fall and winter seasons when conditions can shift rapidly. Troopers emphasize the importance of reducing speed, maintaining proper following distances, and avoiding distractions, especially on narrow, winding routes like Highway 2.
As both the Gold Bar and Othello communities mourn, many have taken to social media to share condolences and words of comfort for the families affected by this tragedy. Memorial tributes are being planned, and local churches are preparing to host prayer gatherings in the coming days.
This devastating crash serves as yet another sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable dangers that can arise on the road. Two lives have been cut short, and several families now face the difficult path of grief and recovery.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision, and further updates are expected once official reports are completed.
May the victims rest in eternal peace, and may the injured find strength and healing in the days ahead.
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