Police responded to the scene and found that an 18-year-old man driving northbound on Pacific Highway South drifted across the center line into the southbound side and collided with an oncoming vehicle
Federal Way, WA – An alleged DUI driver was arrested following a two-vehicle collision that left his passenger dead in Federal Way on Saturday night.
According to a report by the Federal Way Police Department, the wreck happened in the 36000 block of Pacific Highway South at around 9:30 p.m. on January 10.
Police responded to the scene and found that an 18-year-old man driving northbound on Pacific Highway South drifted across the center line into the southbound side and collided with an oncoming vehicle.
A passenger in the northbound vehicle was declared deceased at the scene. The King County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as 19-year-old Veaceslav Suhatchi.
The driver of the southbound vehicle was taken to Harborview Medical Center with unspecified injuries.
Federal Way police said the 18-year-old man driving the northbound vehicle was suspected to have been impaired. He was arrested and booked into the King County Correctional Facility on charges of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault.
The Federal Way Police Department is investigating the incident.
Fatalities due to traffic colisions in King County avaraged 140 in the years between 2021 and 2023. The numbers have been constantly increasing yearly until the peak in 2023, when the county recorded 150. Most fatal accidents occurred on state routes, especially State Route 522 and I-5, which are regarded as the deadliest in King County. This has majorly been attributed to numerous curved sections and high traffic volume that cause drivers to drift into oncoming lanes. According to the Washington State Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) data, state routes contributed to 28% of the fatalities recorded statewide in 2023. Other driver errors including speed, distracted driving, and drinking under the influence also continue to play a key role in these accidents, stressing the need for more sensitization to ensure drivers adhere to the set laws and keep road users safe.
Seek legal help from a Wrongful Death Attorney
When you lose a loved one in a motor vehicle accident, the physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming. At Pacific Attorney Group, our car accident lawyers will help you navigate the entire legal process smoothly, build a strong case, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Call us today for a free consultation to discuss your case with an experienced wrongful death attorney.