Vancouver, WA (September 18, 2025) – A devastating pedestrian crash on Wednesday afternoon claimed the lives of a father and his 6-year-old child after they were struck by a pickup truck on NE 137th Ave, just south of NE 65th St in Vancouver.
The incident occurred around 1:20 p.m. when Vancouver Police responded to reports of a serious collision involving pedestrians. Upon arrival, officers found the adult male victim lying in the roadway; he was pronounced dead at the scene. The child was discovered roughly 10 feet away in a nearby gravel ditch and was critically injured.
Cheyenne Alverson, a passing motorist riding in an Uber with her daughter, witnessed the aftermath and quickly sprang into action. She jumped from the vehicle and rushed to the boy’s side, staying with him until emergency services arrived. While on the phone with a dispatcher, she comforted the child, rubbing his back and urging him to “keep breathing.”
Paramedics transported the child to Randall Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Sadly, Vancouver Police confirmed at approximately 8:30 p.m. that the child had succumbed to his injuries.
The driver of the pickup truck also reportedly collided with nearby construction equipment, forcing workers to flee the area. Authorities have stated that speeding, reckless driving, and possible impairment were contributing factors in the crash. The driver remained at the scene, and an investigation is ongoing.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the victims during this unthinkable time.
Pedestrian Fatalities in Washington State
This tragic loss on NE 137th Ave reflects a disturbing and growing trend across Washington State: an increase in fatal pedestrian collisions. In many cases, speed and impaired driving are the driving forces behind these senseless and preventable incidents.
Vancouver, like many cities experiencing rapid development, has seen increasing traffic near residential and construction zones. Areas such as NE 137th Ave often lack sufficient pedestrian infrastructure—crosswalks, signals, lighting—making them especially dangerous for walkers, including children and families. When driver behavior is reckless or impaired, the risks escalate exponentially.
The involvement of a child in any traffic incident is heartbreaking, but when fatal outcomes follow, the grief spreads far beyond the immediate family—impacting the entire community. Bystanders, witnesses, first responders, and neighbors all carry emotional weight in the wake of tragedies like this one.
This incident also highlights the importance of Good Samaritans like Cheyenne Alverson, whose compassion brought comfort to a young victim in his final moments. It is a powerful reminder of the human response that can emerge from tragic circumstances.
In pedestrian fatality cases involving suspected criminal negligence, families may seek not only emotional and medical support but also legal guidance to ensure their rights are upheld and their voices are heard.
When tragedy strikes, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. At Local Accident Reports, we help families affected by devastating crashes find the support they need—from grief counseling and community aid to legal direction. If your loved one has been taken too soon in a senseless collision, reach out today to learn how we can help you take the next steps toward justice and healing.
