Jay Suitter Injured in Rear-End Collision on U.S. Highway 12

On Sunday, May 11, 2025, a rear-end collision occurred on U.S. Highway 12 in Salkum, Washington, resulting in injuries to Jay R. Suitter, a 69-year-old resident of Ethel. According to the Washington State Patrol, the incident took place at approximately 10:45 a.m. when Suitter, operating a 2003 Ford Crown Victoria, slowed his vehicle to initiate a left turn while traveling eastbound. His vehicle was subsequently struck from behind by a 2005 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Delila M. Westmoreland, 35, of Mossyrock. Suitter sustained injuries necessitating immediate airlift to Tacoma General Hospital, while Westmoreland and her passenger, Larry D. Lester, 61, also of Mossyrock, emerged uninjured. Both vehicles involved were deemed total losses.

The Washington State Patrol has attributed the cause of the collision to "following too close," with no evidence suggesting the involvement of drugs or alcohol. All parties were reported to have been wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the necessity to maintain adequate distance between vehicles to avert preventable accidents.