Kenneth Bible killed in head-on collision on Highway 9

Minivan hit after SUV attempted to pass on 164th Street Southeast

November 09, 2025 | Snohomish, WA

An 82-year-old man lost his life in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 9 near 164th Street Southeast in Snohomish. The Washington State Patrol reported that the crash occurred on Sunday, November 9, when a Hummer H3 attempted to pass other vehicles and struck a Toyota Sienna minivan.

Kenneth Bible, 82, died after his Toyota Sienna was hit head-on by a Hummer H3 on Highway 9 near 164th Street Southeast in Snohomish.

The incident took place at about 6:20 p.m. The Toyota Sienna was traveling southbound when the Hummer H3, driven by a 61-year-old man, moved into the center turn lane to pass northbound traffic. The Hummer then crossed into the southbound lane, leading to a head-on collision with the minivan driven by Kenneth Bible of Snohomish. 

Bible was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities stated that drugs and alcohol played a role in the crash.

What Happened in the Snohomish Crash?

Investigators from the Washington State Patrol determined that the passing maneuver by the Hummer driver caused the vehicles to collide. The southbound Toyota Sienna had no opportunity to avoid the impact.

Key Details of the Incident

• Date: November 9, 2025
• Time: Approximately 6:20 p.m.
• Location: Highway 9 near 164th Street Southeast, Snohomish, Washington
• Vehicles Involved: Toyota Sienna minivan and Hummer H3 SUV
• Driver of Toyota Sienna: Kenneth Bible, 82, Snohomish resident
• Driver of Hummer H3: 61-year-old man
• Outcome: Kenneth Bible pronounced dead at the scene, no other injuries reported
• Contributing Factors: Drugs and alcohol involvement noted by WSP

Why Do Passing Maneuvers Lead to Fatal Crashes?

Passing maneuvers require careful judgment of space and speed. Traffic laws require drivers to ensure clear paths before overtaking. Failure to do so can result in head-on collisions, as seen in this case.

Broader Context on Road Safety

Improper passing contributes to serious accidents on highways like Highway 9. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Washington saw 731 traffic fatalities in 2024, a decrease from 810 in 2023, the highest since 1990. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 40,901 traffic fatalities in 2023. The "fatal four" behaviors—impairment, speeding, distraction, and lack of seat belt use—account for about 75 percent of deadly collisions in Washington.

Washington Traffic Fatality Trends

Data highlights the need for vigilant driving. Impairment was involved in about 59 percent of 2024 Washington fatalities, with speeding in 33 percent.

Legal Insights on Motor Vehicle Crashes

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough reviews in such incidents. Their expertise helps families navigate complex processes.

Expert Commentary

Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and families must be assured that evidence is reviewed efficiently. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide clients during this difficult time while vigorously protecting their legal rights and best interests.

 Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.

We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.

 Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

Key Takeaways from Analysts

• Hire an independent attorney to review crash causes and secure evidence promptly.
• Families may pursue wrongful death claims for loss of companionship and emotional distress.
• Legal guidance protects rights amid official investigations.
• Compassionate support is crucial during grief.

Newsline's Commitment to Credibility

Newsline, the premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. Our rigorous editorial standards ensure accurate reporting on public safety issues. We maintain transparency through our Corrections Policy, with a 24-hour review guarantee for submissions via the Corrections Form. See our Editorial Process, Editorial Policy, and Ethics and Advertising for details.

Interested in reaching our engaged audience? Advertise with Newsline.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.