The trial has begun for Raul Benitez-Santana, who is accused of fatally striking Washington State Patrol (WSP) Trooper Christopher Gadd in a high-speed crash on March 2, 2024. Opening statements provided details of the collision on I-5, which involved Benitez-Santana’s SUV, Trooper Gadd’s patrol vehicle, and a van carrying six passengers, according to KIRO 7.
The prosecution stated that the impact killed Trooper Gadd almost instantly, with FOX 13 Seattle reporting that Gadd suffered fatal skull fractures and that his vehicle was heavily damaged. Dashcam footage reportedly showed Benitez-Santana’s SUV speeding past a semi-truck moments before the crash.
The defense noted that Benitez-Santana, who did not suffer serious injuries, was questioned while hospitalized.
According to KING 5, Trooper Gadd graduated at the top of his class in 2022 and received a top academic award. WSP Chief John Batiste honored Gadd’s service, stating, “We will never forget Trooper Christopher Gadd, badge number 927 of the Washington State Patrol.”
The trial continues as the court examines the details of the incident and the circumstances surrounding the crash.
