White SUV strikes woman crossing street near Southeast 224th Street
December 26, 2025 | Kent, WA
Jessica Vasquez, a 37-year-old woman eight months pregnant, lost her life after being struck by a vehicle in Kent. The incident claimed the life of both Vasquez and her unborn son, Angel Vasquez.
Jessica Vasquez, 37, died after a white SUV struck her while she crossed 108th Avenue Southeast near Southeast 224th Street in Kent.
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office reported that Vasquez succumbed to multiple blunt force injuries.
What Happened in the Crash?
A preliminary investigation by Kent police revealed that Vasquez was crossing 108th Avenue Southeast near Southeast 224th Street on the East Hill around 5 p.m. when a white SUV traveling southbound struck her. The 55-year-old female driver remained at the scene.
- Date: Dec. 26, 2025
- Time: Approximately 5 p.m.
- Location: 108th Avenue SE and SE 224th Street, Kent, WA
- Victim: Jessica Vasquez, 37, eight months pregnant
- Unborn Child: Angel Vasquez
- Vehicle: White SUV, southbound
- Driver: 55-year-old woman, cooperated with authorities
- Cause of Death: Multiple blunt force injuries
The crash is still under investigation by local authorities.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety on U.S. roads has deteriorated, driven by larger vehicles such as SUVs and trucks, high-speed infrastructure, and driver inattention. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 84% of pedestrian fatalities in 2023 happened in urban settings, compared to 59% in 1975.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Pedestrian Deaths in Urban Areas (2023) |
84% |
IIHS |
Pedestrian Deaths in Urban Areas (1975) |
59% |
IIHS |
Increase in Heavier Vehicles Contributing to Fatalities |
Significant rise |
Federal Highway Administration |
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.
Bond emphasized that thorough investigations are crucial in such incidents to preserve evidence and assess potential negligence.
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Newsline's national legal analysts provide guidance on navigating fatal pedestrian accidents.
“Having the right resources is essential in any pedestrian accident investigation, helping ensure evidence is collected, reviewed and documented properly so investigators can determine whether negligence played a role,” Bond added.
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Independent investigations by experienced attorneys can protect victims' rights in motor vehicle crashes.
- Families may pursue wrongful death claims for loss of companionship following such tragedies.
- Legal support helps families cope with overwhelming grief while safeguarding interests.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano formica, of counsel with 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 protect their legal rights and best interests.”
Pending investigation outcomes, Vasquez's family could be eligible for a wrongful death claim.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).