Kasey Emery died in two-vehicle accident on State Route 97A

Passenger vehicle struck turning Ford F-450 on highway near Entiat

March 14, 2026 | Entiat, WA

A tragic two-vehicle crash claimed the life of 24-year-old Kasey J. Emery from Chelan in Chelan County. 

The incident occurred north of Entiat along State Route 97A, highlighting ongoing concerns about highway safety in Washington state.

Kasey J. Emery, 24, died after a Chevrolet Trailblazer struck a Ford F-450 on State Route 97A near milepost 220 in Chelan County.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision unfolded around 10 p.m. near milepost 220. A 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, driven by a 24-year-old Entiat resident, approached a 2024 Ford F-450 that was turning right off the highway. The SUV did not slow down in time, resulting in a severe collision that disabled both vehicles and blocked northbound and southbound lanes.

Emery, a passenger in the Trailblazer, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Trailblazer driver received hospital treatment for injuries, while the F-450 driver reported no additional harm.

• Date and Time: March 14, around 10 p.m.
• Location: State Route 97A, north of Entiat, milepost 220, Chelan County, WA
• Vehicles Involved: 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, northbound, and 2024 Ford F-450, turning right
• Fatalities: 1, Kasey J. Emery, 24, passenger
• Injuries: The Trailblazer driver was hospitalized, and no other reported
• Suspected Factors: Possible involvement of drugs or alcohol
• Agency: Washington State Patrol, investigation ongoing

Crash Investigation Details

Authorities from the Washington State Patrol are examining the circumstances, including potential impairment. The highway blockage caused temporary disruptions, but no further injuries occurred among responders or other motorists.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Highway collisions like this one often stem from driver errors, environmental conditions, and roadway design. Recent data underscores the rising toll of such incidents nationwide.

These figures from the NHTSA emphasize the need for vigilant driving on routes like U.S. 97A, known for its curves and traffic volume.

Legal Insights

In motor vehicle crashes involving potential negligence, independent reviews play a crucial role. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, stresses the value of thorough examinations.

“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 Bond, a national analyst for Newsline. “Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the family of a victim must be assured that evidence is reviewed efficiently.”

Key takeaways from such investigations include:

• Re-interviewing witnesses to capture overlooked details
• Securing video evidence before it disappears
• Analyzing communication records for distraction evidence
• Ensuring the timely preservation of crash scene data

For families facing loss, Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlights potential remedies.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Formica. “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.”

Families may pursue claims for companionship loss, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

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