Emma Ingram Killed by Falling Tree on SR 203 Near Carnation, Washington - December 7, 2024 Atmospheric River Tragedy

On December 7, 2024, Emma Ingram, a resident of Washington State, lost her life in a fatal traffic incident on State Route 203 north of Carnation when a tree fell onto her vehicle. The deceased was traveling southbound with her boyfriend, who was operating the vehicle at the time of the collision. The driver sustained serious injuries and was transported via airlift to Harborview Medical Center. According to Washington State Patrol reports, Ingram was the sole occupant not wearing a seatbelt at the time of impact. The falling tree struck the vehicle and fragmented upon contact, with debris subsequently affecting a northbound vehicle containing four occupants, none of whom sustained injuries.

The incident occurred during a period of significant ground saturation due to prolonged rainfall in the region, with Battalion Chief Ryan Anderson of Eastside Fire Rescue noting minimal wind activity at the time of the tree's collapse. The fatality preceded an incoming atmospheric river system forecasted to deliver wind gusts of 40-50 mph and substantial precipitation to western Washington. State Route 203 remained closed for approximately 3.5 hours following the incident. The deceased is survived by two children, ages 16 and 18, according to family statements and online memorial documentation.