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PASCO, Franklin County, Wash., Oct. 16, 2026 — One person was hurt on Thursday evening, October 15, in a two-vehicle crash on westbound Interstate 182 near milepost 8 in Pasco, Wash. The Washington State Patrol said the collision involved a passenger SUV and a semi-truck.
A black 2010 GMC Terrain struck a white 2013 Peterbilt truck. Troopers determined the SUV had been following too closely before the impact.
The GMC's driver, identified by the Washington State Patrol as 53-year-old Kristina K. Barnes of Pasco, was injured and taken to Kadlec Regional Medical Center for treatment. The truck driver, identified as 42-year-old Roman Maya Argueta of Pasco, was not hurt. Both drivers had their seatbelts on at the time.
The GMC Terrain was declared a total loss and towed from the scene, while the Peterbilt sustained damage that did not require a formal report. Investigators said drugs and alcohol do not appear to have played a role, and no charges have been filed as of this report.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Pasco, WA
This crash happened on Interstate 182 in Pasco, WA. We cover crashes across Franklin County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Franklin County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common in car accidents like this one?
Rear-end crashes usually cause whiplash, neck and back strain, and injuries from the body striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt. Seatbelts, as worn by both drivers here, greatly reduce the chance of more serious harm.
What usually causes rear-end collisions?
Following too closely is one of the most common factors, along with distracted driving, sudden braking, and reduced visibility. Troopers cited following distance as the cause in this crash.
Does speed make a difference in how bad a crash is?
Yes. Higher speeds give drivers less time to react and increase the force of impact, which tends to mean more serious vehicle damage and injuries even in a routine rear-end crash.
Why is distracted driving considered so dangerous?
Taking eyes or attention off the road for even a few seconds can prevent a driver from braking in time to avoid a collision, which is usually what turns a close call into a crash.
What to Do After a Rear-End Crash in Pasco, WA
After any collision on the highway, move to a safe spot if the vehicle is drivable and turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries, and call 911 even if the damage looks minor, since some injuries aren't obvious right away. Exchange information with the other driver and wait for law enforcement to arrive and document the scene.
It's wise to see a doctor within a day or two of any crash, even without visible injuries, since soreness or whiplash symptoms can take time to appear. Keep copies of the police report, medical records, and any towing or repair paperwork, since these documents matter later when dealing with insurance claims.
