47-Year-Old Woman Fatally Injured and One Dead in Possible DUI Accident on the 300 Block of Hoffer Road
WAPATO, WA (February 18, 2018) – On Sunday afternoon around 12:50 PM, a fatal car crash occurred on the 300 block of Hoffer Road.
26-year-old Kyle Gayton was speeding down Hoffer Road going westbound, when he struck another vehicle. The car was stopped on the southbound lane of Horschel Road and Hoffer Road, and attempted to make a left turn, when it was struck by Gayton.
The driver, Rafael Ontiveros, was injured and taken to the Virginia Mason Memorial Hospital. Maria Gonzalez-Tapia, 47, was sitting passenger, and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel. Both victims were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, and the car was totaled.
Drugs and alcohol seem to be involved in the fatal accident. Charges are pending as the investigation continues.
Sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Maria Gonzalez-Tapia. May she rest in peace.
When losing a loved one due to the reckless driving of a person under the influence, it is important to have a strong legal team on your side to achieve justice. We at Sweet Law Group have over 40 years of experience in the field, and know what it takes to win your wrongful death case; bringing you and your family the justice and compensation that is owed. Call us now for a free consultation at (800) 203-3061.