An early morning tragedy on a Washington highway last weekend took the life of a state trooper, and the man accused of causing it is reportedly an illegal immigrant from Mexico. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has identified the 33-year-old suspect, who is currently being detained on vehicular homicide charges, as living in the United States "unlawfully." The suspect, from Lynnwood, WA, was not previously admitted into the country through official channels, as reported by KATU.
The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on March 2, when Trooper Christopher M. Gadd was struck by the suspect's vehicle while on duty along the southbound section of I-5 near Marysville. Sadly, Gadd died at the scene. As detailed in court documents obtained by KING 5, the suspect admitted to consuming marijuana and alcohol before the fatal collision.
Gadd was remembered by his family in a statement, noting, "We are working through what is undoubtedly the most difficult of times for our family as we mourn the loss of a loving husband, devoted father, caring brother, beloved son, and committed friend. We appreciate the outpouring of support we have seen from the community that Chris loved and served," as per KING 5.
Following the crash, the suspect was hospitalized and interviewed by authorities, during which he waived his Miranda rights and conceded to having smoked "a bowl of marijuana" and drinking beer before driving. A Drug Recognition Expert present during the suspect's interview at the hospital observed signs consistent with recent marijuana use. Additionally, a preliminary breath test indicated a .047 blood alcohol level, as stated inKING 5.
