Iris Ramos Cruz died in two-vehicle crash on Bench Road south of Othel

Chevrolet Silverado carrying girls veered into irrigation canal after being struck

April 26, 2026 | Adams, WA

A tragic two-vehicle accident in Adams County claimed the lives of three young girls on a Sunday afternoon, with authorities arresting a 19-year-old driver from Othello.

Iris Ramos Cruz died along with two other juveniles after a two-vehicle crash involving a Mercedes Benz and a Chevrolet Silverado on Bench Road near Othello in Adams County.

What Happened in the Bench Road Crash?

The incident occurred around 12:20 p.m. on Bench Road, just south of Othello, Washington. A white 2019 Mercedes-Benz sedan driven by Presiliano Perez-Pineda attempted to pass a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck carrying the three juveniles. During the maneuver, Perez-Pineda veered into the westbound lane and collided with the driver's side of the Silverado.

The collision forced the pickup off the road and into a nearby irrigation canal. All three girls were ejected from the vehicle and tragically found deceased in the water.

• Date and Time: Sunday, April 26, around 12:20 p.m.
• Location: Bench Road, south of Othello, Adams County, WA
• Vehicles Involved: 2019 Mercedes-Benz sedan and Chevrolet Silverado pickup
• Victims: Three juvenile girls, including identified victim Iris Ramos Cruz from Othello
• Suspect: Presiliano Perez-Pineda, 19, of Othello, arrested on suspicion of three counts of vehicular homicide and additional charges
• Investigation Status: Ongoing by the Adams County Sheriff's Office

Family members of Iris Ramos Cruz have launched an online fundraiser to assist with funeral costs and support during this difficult time.

Why Do These Types of Accidents Occur?

Road crashes remain a leading cause of death in the United States, often stemming from preventable factors. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), unsafe driving behaviors contribute to the majority of fatal incidents.

Data sourced from NHTSA reports on motor vehicle safety trends.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, independent analysis plays a crucial role in understanding liability and supporting affected families.

“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, and a national analyst for Newsline.

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on crash investigations:

• Preserve evidence promptly, as time-sensitive details like witness statements can fade.
• Conduct thorough reviews of vehicle data and road conditions to establish fault.
• Families may pursue claims for economic and emotional losses resulting from negligence.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”

Pending further investigation, relatives of the victims could be eligible for wrongful death claims to seek compensation for companionship loss, pain, and suffering.

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