Maria C. Mendoza Killed in Suspected DUI Crash on Interstate 182 in Pasco, Washington on February 6, 2026

On February 6, 2026, a fatal collision on Interstate 182 in Pasco claimed the life of Maria C. Mendoza, 57, of Grandview. According to the Washington State Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 7:45 p.m. near the North Fourth Avenue exit when an 18-year-old driver traveling westbound in a Ford F-150 left the roadway. The vehicle rolled over a cable barrier and entered eastbound traffic, where it collided with Mendoza’s car.

Maria C. Mendoza was pronounced dead as a result of the impact. Authorities stated that the teenage driver, identified as being from Othello, was suspected of driving under the influence at the time of the crash. He was treated at the scene and later booked into the Franklin County jail on suspicion of negligent vehicular homicide and attempting to elude law enforcement. Eastbound lanes of Interstate 182 remained closed until approximately 2:30 a.m. Saturday as investigators examined the scene. The case remains under active investigation.