This is an updated post. You can read the original story here.
Chewelah, WA (July 30, 2026) – Two people were killed in a head-on crash involving a garbage truck on US Highway 395 near Blue Creek, about five miles northwest of Chewelah, on Tuesday morning, July 28. The collision happened at approximately 5:17 a.m., prompting emergency units to respond to the scene.
According to the Washington State Patrol, a northbound passenger vehicle crossed the center line and struck a southbound garbage truck head-on. Both vehicles rolled over and came to rest off the roadway. The occupants of the passenger vehicle, identified as 55-year-old Jamey C. Dotts of Kettle Falls and 47-year-old Karla Taylor of Springdale, were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision, and additional information may be released as the review progresses.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Jamey C. Dotts and Karla Taylor.
What Is Reviewed After a Center-Line Crossing Crash?
When a vehicle crosses the center line and collides with oncoming traffic, investigators examine several factors to understand what happened. They may review roadway markings, vehicle damage, tire marks, and the vehicles’ final resting positions. Witness statements and any available electronic vehicle data can also help establish the sequence of events.
Rollovers and crashes involving commercial vehicles may require additional documentation because of the extent of damage and roadway impact. Investigators also consider road conditions, visibility, and other physical evidence collected at the scene to develop a complete timeline of the collision.
