PORT TOWNSEND, Wash. — A devastating three-vehicle crash involving a Jefferson Transit bus left a teenage driver dead and three others injured Tuesday evening in Jefferson County. The tragic collision unfolded along a stretch of State Route 104 and has left families and the community searching for answers.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash occurred just before 7 p.m. near milepost 9. Investigators said a westbound vehicle crossed the center line for reasons that remain under investigation and struck an eastbound Jefferson Transit bus head-on. The violent impact caused significant damage and forced traffic to a standstill as emergency crews rushed to the scene.
Authorities identified the driver of the westbound vehicle as 17-year-old A. Pelilu Wines of Poulsbo. Troopers confirmed that Wines died at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. The sudden loss of a young life has deeply affected loved ones and members of the surrounding communities.
Moments after the initial collision, a second westbound vehicle traveling behind the teen’s car crashed into the bus. Officials said 41-year-old Christopher Fiorini of Sequim, who was driving the third vehicle, and his passenger, 68-year-old Elizabeth Fiorini, were both injured. The pair were transported to Jefferson Healthcare for treatment. Their conditions have not been publicly detailed.
The driver of the Jefferson Transit bus, 62-year-old Michael Berrett of Port Townsend, suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center for advanced care. Authorities confirmed that one passenger on the bus at the time of the crash was not injured, though the experience was undoubtedly frightening.
In total, three people were hurt in the collision, in addition to the teen who lost his life. The Washington State Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash and has not determined whether drugs or alcohol were factors. As the investigation remains ongoing, the community mourns and waits for answers about the tragic chain of events that unfolded that evening.
