Soap Lake, WA (January 10, 2025) – A tragic accident occurred Thursday night near Ephrata when a vehicle ran a stop sign and collided with another car. The Washington State Patrol (WSP) reported that the crash took place around 7:30 PM at the intersection of Road 19 NW and State Route 28.
According to WSP, 59-year-old George Martin of Moses Lake failed to stop at a stop sign and struck the vehicle driven by 39-year-old Jessica Oelke of Soap Lake on the driver’s side. The impact caused Martin’s vehicle to overturn, landing on its roof, while Oelke’s vehicle veered off the road into a ditch.
Jessica Oelke was pronounced dead at the scene. George Martin sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a Spokane hospital for treatment. WSP indicated that charges against Martin are pending as the investigation continues.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Jessica Oelke during this difficult time, and we wish George Martin a full recovery.
Intersection Safety in Washington
This devastating crash near Ephrata highlights the critical importance of adhering to traffic signals and stop signs at intersections. Failure to yield or stop can have fatal consequences, as evidenced by the events on State Route 28.
Drivers are reminded to exercise caution, slow down, and come to a complete stop at intersections, ensuring it is safe to proceed before entering. Following these safety measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of tragic accidents.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a motor vehicle accident, Local Accident Reports offers resources and support to help navigate the aftermath. Contact them today for guidance and assistance.