Wapato, WA (March 25, 2025) – Emergency responders from Yakima County were called to a serious early morning collision that left a pedestrian injured on State Route 97 near West Wapato Road. The crash occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Friday, March 22, and involved a pedestrian who was struck while traveling near the highway.
Authorities identified the victim as Wade Ohms. According to initial reports, Ohms was walking along or near the roadway when he was struck by a passing vehicle under unclear circumstances. First responders, including medics and fire crews, worked quickly to stabilize the injured pedestrian and transport him to a nearby hospital for further care. The extent of Ohms’ injuries has not been released at this time.
The crash occurred in low-light conditions, and officials have not confirmed whether the involved driver remained at the scene. Investigators are working to determine the factors that led to the collision, including lighting, visibility, driver impairment, and pedestrian positioning at the time of impact.
This crash remains under active investigation by the Washington State Patrol and local authorities. Our thoughts are with Wade Ohms and his family as he begins his recovery.
Pedestrian Accidents in Washington
Pedestrian-involved collisions, especially those occurring on highways or during early morning hours, often result in severe or life-threatening injuries. The recent crash on SR-97 near Wapato underscores how dangerous major roadways can be for those traveling on foot—particularly in low-visibility conditions or areas lacking pedestrian infrastructure.
State Route 97 is a high-speed corridor through Yakima County, where both local and commercial traffic are frequent. Incidents involving pedestrians on this stretch of road are especially hazardous due to limited lighting, narrow shoulders, and minimal barriers separating vehicles from foot traffic. In the early hours of the morning, factors such as fatigue, poor visibility, and reduced driver alertness can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
Officials will likely be reviewing any available dashcam footage, eyewitness accounts, and traffic surveillance to assess whether proper lighting, signage, or speed contributed to this incident. In many cases, improving pedestrian safety on rural highways comes down to a combination of infrastructure upgrades and public awareness.
For injured pedestrians like Wade Ohms, the recovery process can involve extensive medical treatment, emotional trauma, and financial strain. Connecting with supportive resources—from healthcare professionals to legal guidance—can help victims and their families navigate the complex aftermath of such events.
At Local Accident Reports, we understand the profound impact pedestrian crashes can have on victims and their communities. That’s why we remain committed to sharing vital updates and connecting those affected with compassionate, knowledgeable support.
Have you or someone you care about been injured in a pedestrian crash in Washington? You don’t have to face the recovery process alone. Local Accident Reports offers trusted updates and access to support systems designed to help victims and families rebuild. Reach out today to discover how we can assist you during this challenging time
