911 call released following off-duty WSP trooper’s fatal crash

RICHLAND, Washington – The 911 call made by off-duty Washington State Patrol Trooper Sarah Lee Clasen, 35, has been released following the March 1 crash in Richland that resulted in the death of motorcycle operator, Jhoser Sanchez, 20. Both Clasen and Sanchez are from Richland.

The Richland Police Department reported the collision occurred at State Route 240 and Village Parkway after Clasen, who was driving her own vehicle, turned in front of Sanchez, who later died at a local hospital.

In Clasen’s conversation with the 911 operator, she admits she hit a motorcyclist and is then asked if the person is injured or bleeding. After checking, she shares details on Sanchez’s condition before explaining who she is.

“Yeah, we have no pulse on, I believe a pedestrian… I can, yes, I’m a first responder,” Clasen said.

The 911 operator then asked, “You are a first responder?” Clasen answered, “Yes, I am.”

Clasen refused to take sobriety tests. A blood sample was taken and is pending analysis. She was arrested and booked for vehicular homicide.

Following her first court appearance on March 3, Clasen was released on her own recognizance. As part of her release, she is required to wear a blood alcohol monitor bracelet and install an ignition interlock device on her car. Clasen, a 14-year veteran of the Washington State Patrol has also been placed on paid administrative leave.

Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney Larry Haskell has been appointed a special prosecutor in this case.

“The decision to appoint a special prosecutor was based on Clasen’s position as a local law enforcement officer and the need for independent review and handling of this matter in the interests of justice,” Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Eisinger said. Clasen’s arraignment is scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday).

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