Alder, WA (September 3, 2025) – A tragic two-vehicle collision near Alder Lake claimed the life of an elderly woman and left another person injured on Monday afternoon. The crash occurred around 3:36 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 7 and Alder Cutoff Rd, according to the Washington State Patrol.
Authorities reported that an 88-year-old woman from Ashford was traveling southbound in a 2015 Subaru Legacy on Alder Cutoff Rd when she failed to stop at a posted stop sign. As the vehicle entered the intersection, it was struck on the driver’s side by a northbound 2001 Chevrolet Silverado traveling along SR 7.
The elderly woman, who was riding in the Subaru, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The 82-year-old male driver of the Subaru, a resident of Eatonville, sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The driver of the Silverado was not reported to be injured.
Washington State Patrol investigators confirmed that neither alcohol nor drugs were suspected to have contributed to the crash. The collision remains under investigation to determine any additional contributing factors.
Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased woman, and we wish strength and healing to those affected by this heartbreaking loss.
Deadly Rural Intersections in Washington State
Fatal crashes at rural intersections—such as SR 7 and Alder Cutoff Rd—are a persistent concern across Washington, particularly in Pierce County where state highways connect small towns like Ashford and Eatonville. These intersections often lack modern traffic controls, rely heavily on driver awareness, and pose increased danger due to high-speed cross traffic.
In Monday’s fatal crash, the failure to stop at a signed intersection underscores how critical visibility, attention, and road familiarity are—especially for older drivers who may experience slower reaction times. While the investigation continues, incidents like this emphasize the importance of clear signage, road maintenance, and possibly re-evaluating traffic engineering at high-risk junctions.
State Route 7 is a well-traveled corridor that runs along the western edge of Alder Lake and serves as a key connector between Mt. Rainier communities and larger cities like Tacoma. Vehicles on SR 7 frequently travel at high speeds, which means even momentary errors—such as failing to yield at a stop sign—can have catastrophic outcomes.
Elderly drivers, while often experienced and cautious, may face unique challenges related to visibility, reaction speed, and health factors. Public safety initiatives aimed at senior driver support and intersection improvements could help prevent future tragedies on routes like this.
For families impacted by fatal crashes, the emotional toll is often matched by legal and financial complexities. From funeral costs to medical bills and insurance claims, having trusted support can ease the burden during an already devastating time.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a crash at a dangerous intersection, or if you or someone you love was injured, resources are available to help you understand your rights and recovery options.
Losing someone in a preventable crash is one of life’s hardest moments. At Local Accident Reports, we’re committed to helping families like yours access the support they need—whether it’s medical care, legal guidance, or local recovery resources. If your family has been affected by a collision like the one on SR 7, don’t face it alone. Contact us today to begin the path toward healing.
