A devastating crash in Yakima County has left families and communities mourning after three people, including an 11-year-old girl from Kelso, lost their lives in a violent head-on collision. The victims have been identified as Luis A. Martines, 39, and Yajaira J. Martinez, 38, both of Bellingham, along with the young Kelso girl whose life was tragically cut short. Their sudden deaths have left loved ones heartbroken as they struggle to cope with the loss.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the fatal crash happened on Friday night, March 13, 2026, at approximately 9:45 p.m. along State Route 24 near milepost 21. The location is about 15 miles east of the Moxee city limits. Authorities said the collision involved two vehicles traveling in opposite directions on the highway when the tragic incident unfolded.
Investigators reported that a vehicle driven by 35-year-old Danielle Reed of Kelso was traveling eastbound with two children as passengers. At the same time, another vehicle traveling westbound attempted an unsafe passing maneuver. Officials say the westbound vehicle crossed into the eastbound lane and crashed head-on into Reed’s vehicle, causing catastrophic damage to both cars.
Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene to assist the victims. Danielle Reed was injured and transported to Yakima Memorial Hospital for treatment. A 13-year-old passenger in her vehicle was also taken to the hospital with injuries. Tragically, the 11-year-old girl riding in the vehicle suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities later reported that Reed had been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. However, neither of the children in her vehicle were wearing seatbelts. In the other vehicle involved in the collision, Luis A. Martines and Yajaira J. Martinez were both pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. Two children in their vehicle, ages 6 and 8, survived the crash but were injured and transported to Yakima Memorial Hospital.
Investigators believe unsafe passing caused the crash, though the investigation remains ongoing. The tragic loss of the young girl and the two adults has left a deep sense of sorrow among family members, friends, and community residents. As loved ones mourn, many are remembering the victims and offering prayers and support to the families as they face an incredibly difficult time.
