Grand Coulee, WA (February 18, 2025) – A serious two-vehicle collision on State Route 155 left a woman and a young boy injured Saturday evening.
The crash occurred around 4:51 p.m. near milepost 27.4 when an 18-year-old driver lost control of his vehicle and veered into oncoming traffic. According to investigators, Aidan Palmanteer of Grand Coulee was traveling south in a black 2007 BMW 328 when he swerved across the center line and crashed head-on into a gray 2004 Nissan Armada.
The Nissan, driven by 48-year-old Jesus Llamas of Grand Coulee, sustained significant damage in the impact. Two passengers inside the Nissan, 45-year-old Kesha One Owl, and a 10-year-old boy, suffered injuries and were transported to Coulee Medical Center for treatment.
Fortunately, the drivers of both vehicles and an additional passenger in the BMW, 18-year-old Thaylon Tonasket of Keller, Washington, were not hurt.
Authorities determined that drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash and subsequently charged Palmanteer with vehicular assault. The Washington State Patrol continues to investigate the incident.
Our thoughts go out to the injured victims, and we wish them a full recovery.
Preventing Head-On Collisions in Washington
Head-on crashes are among the most dangerous types of traffic accidents, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. Many of these accidents occur due to impaired driving, reckless maneuvers, or driver inattention. On roads like State Route 155, where two-lane traffic is common, the risk of crossover collisions increases significantly.
Impaired driving remains a leading cause of serious crashes nationwide. Alcohol and drugs can impair reaction times, decision-making, and overall driving ability. In Washington, law enforcement actively works to prevent impaired driving through DUI checkpoints and awareness campaigns, but drivers must also take personal responsibility for safety.
Seatbelt use is another critical factor in reducing injury severity. Studies show that properly wearing a seatbelt can decrease the risk of serious injury or death by up to 50%. Ensuring all passengers are securely buckled can make a life-saving difference in the event of a crash.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s negligence, it’s important to seek legal guidance. Local Accident Reports is dedicated to providing resources and updates for accident victims and their families. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and the next steps after a serious collision.