Wrong-way driver causes fatal collision on U.S. 12
By Dan Thesman on Saturday, September 21st, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA COUNTY – The Washington State Patrol reports a fatal head-on collision occurred Saturday at 3:10 a.m. on eastbound U.S. 12 at milepost 303, 11 miles southeast of Pasco.
A 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe, driven by Caitlin S. Bailey, 40, of Athena, was eastbound in the westbound lanes when it crossed the centerline and struck a 2006 Toyota Scion traveling westbound head-on. The Toyota was driven by Salvador Beltran, 28, of Pasco. Both vehicles were totaled.
Beltran died at the scene. Bailey was injured and transported to Kadlec Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts.
WSP said charges are pending against Bailey and that it’s unknown if drugs or alcohol were involved. The cause of the fatal collision is under investigation.
Photo via WSP
