A 63-year-old Tacoma motorcyclist was killed Monday afternoon after crashing into a car that had stopped on State Route 7 near Elbe, according to authorities. The rider was identified as Olivia A. Waller of Tacoma, and the collision was reported just before 2:52 p.m. The driver of the blue Kia Spectra, described as a 32-year-old woman from Mineral, was not injured. Troopers said drugs or alcohol were allegedly involved, and charges are pending.
State Patrol: Driver Arrested On Suspicion Of DUI
According to The News Tribune, the Washington State Patrol arrested the Kia driver on suspicion of driving under the influence and reported that drugs or alcohol were allegedly a factor. The News Tribune noted that Waller died at the scene while troopers continued to investigate what led to the crash.
Troopers Say Fault Still Under Review
Trooper Dakota Russell told The News Tribune that investigators have not yet determined who was at fault. He said the Kia driver was released from jail pending further investigation. The State Patrol did not immediately provide more details about the sequence of events leading up to the collision.
Crash Site On Rural SR 7 Corridor
The deadly crash happened along a largely rural stretch of State Route 7 between Eatonville and Elbe. The two-lane road carries a mix of local traffic and visitors, including seasonal motorcyclists, according to WSDOT. Narrow shoulders and rolling terrain are noted as typical conditions in that segment, which can make responding to serious collisions and managing traffic more challenging.
WSP Highlights Broader Motorcycle And DUI Risks
The Washington State Patrol has recently been urging both riders and drivers to take extra care as the weather warms up and more motorcycles return to state highways. In an April press release outlining rider safety tips, the agency reminded the public never to ride or drive impaired and to watch carefully for motorcyclists sharing the road (WSP). Around April 20, the State Patrol issued a separate advisory stressing the deadly consequences of driving under the influence (WSP).
Investigation And Possible Charges Ahead
Investigators say charges are pending and that troopers will forward their findings to prosecutors as appropriate, but no formal filings had been announced. Officials have not released additional information about the ongoing investigation or details about notifying Waller's next of kin. The State Patrol has said it will provide updates as the case moves forward.
