By Dan Thesman on Tuesday, July 9th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
BENTON COUNTY, Washington – A preliminary investigation into Thursday’s vehicle collision that killed Benton County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Bradley Bartlett, 35, and three members of his family indicates Bartlett ran a stop sign at an intersection.
Deputies were dispatched at 6:14 p.m. on July 4 to a two-vehicle accident at Travis Road and Sellards Road south of Benton City.
The collision resulted in multiple fatalities including Bartlett, his wife Alexandra, 31, their daughter, Scarlett, 10, and 1-month-old daughter, Violet. All four were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their son Grant, who is almost 2, was injured and flown to Kadlec Regional Medical Center and then transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Grant has since been released and is with family recovering.
The driver of the second involved vehicle, Trevor Wagenaar, was transported to an area hospital where he was treated and released for his injuries.
According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, there is no indication of intoxicants being a factor and it appears all occupants were wearing their seat belts or restrained in car seats.