Deadly Crashes on Interstate 182 In Pasco Leave Families Devastated

Two separate car accidents on Interstate 182 in Pasco, Washington, have left the community reeling, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and multiple injuries. The recent tragedies highlight the importance of road safety and responsible driving practices.

The first incident occurred when 23-year-old Erika Y. Rojas Barragan lost control of her SUV while changing lanes, causing a multi-vehicle crash that resulted in her fatality. Rojas Barragan, a caregiver from the Tri-Cities area, was not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the accident. Her family has started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses. The incident is currently under investigation.

A second, more fatal accident occurred hours later, when a 37-year-old Yakima man drove his vehicle in the wrong direction on Interstate 182, colliding with a 2014 Honda Civic driven by Rodrigo Torres-Gonzalez. A 22-month-old toddler and the driver were killed in the head-on collision, while two passengers in the Honda Civic, including a 6-year-old boy, were injured. The suspect, Zachary Schwartz, is currently in custody on suspicion of DUI, and the cause of the crash is under investigation.

The community is coming together to support the families of the victims, with numerous individuals donating to the GoFundMe campaign set up for Rojas Barragan's funeral expenses. As authorities continue to investigate the causes of these tragic accidents, the importance of safe driving practices and road safety cannot be overstated. It is crucial for drivers to exercise caution and follow traffic laws to prevent such devastating incidents.

The Pasco community is mourning the loss of three lives, and the road to healing and recovery will be long and arduous. As investigators work to determine the causes of these crashes, local residents are urged to drive safely and responsibly, using this opportunity to reflect on the importance of road safety and responsible behavior behind the wheel.