March 2, 2025
Late Saturday evening, I was made aware that one of our troopers was involved in a collision resulting in a fatality in Richland. Our trooper was off duty, driving their personal vehicle, and has been taken into custody by the Richland Police Department (RPD). An independent fatal collision investigation is ongoing. RPD will handle all further communications regarding the incident. Their point of contact is RPD Commander Chris Mason who can be reached at 509-942-7360.
The Washington State Patrol offers our sincerest condolences to the victim and their loved ones. I have every confidence that the Richland Police Department will investigate this case with great care and professionalism. We are thankful there were no other injuries and will of course cooperate in any way requested by the independent investigating agency.
We are reminded in times like these that law enforcement officers are not immune from tragedy nor from personal accountability, and we urge all motorists to always drive with focus, care, and caution.
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Release sent by Sergeant Jermaine Walker, Public Information Officer