Distracted Driver Likely Cause of Fatal Accident near Mattawa

Authorities say a distracted driver is likely to blame for an accident Sunday night that killed two people.

65-year-old Juan Gonzales of Mattawa, and 29-year-old Maria Gonzalez Hernandez also of Mattawa died when the car they were riding in rolled and slid into an orchard. Roman Rodriquez, 42 of Mattawa was driving North on Road R-Southwest, but didn't stop for a stop sign at the intersection of Road 24.

His vehicle collided with another vehicle driven by 45-year old Emiliano Bravo also of Mattawa.  7 people were injured, several taken by MedStar helicopter to Kadlec Regional Medical Center and others to Yakima Valley Memorial.

Several of the occupants were not wearing seatbelts and were ejected or partially ejected from the two cars.  The accident occurred about 10pm.