A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded near Mason County Friday afternoon when 25-year-old Christopher R. Rankin of Lakewood lost his life following a two-vehicle collision. Rankin, who was traveling east on state Route 302, reportedly crossed the center line and collided head-on with a westbound vehicle driven by a 46-year-old woman from Salem, Oregon.
The accident occurred just after 3:30 p.m. near a stretch of highway that has seen its fair share of incidents over the years. State Patrol officials say the impact of the crash sent both drivers to nearby hospitals, but tragically, Rankin succumbed to his injuries later that evening. He was transported to St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma, where he was pronounced dead.
The woman from Salem, whose name has not been released, was seriously injured and rushed to St. Anthony Hospital in Gig Harbor. According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), she is expected to survive her injuries, though details on her condition remain limited.
Initial reports suggest Rankin was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, which could have been a factor in the severity of his injuries. While the investigation is still ongoing, troopers have confirmed that alcohol or drugs were not involved in the incident. This revelation offers a small sense of clarity to what has been a devastating turn of events for both families involved.
Witnesses to the crash described the scene as chaotic. First responders had to block off a section of SR 302 for about four hours, as they worked tirelessly to clear debris and investigate the cause of the wreck. The road closure led to significant delays for drivers in the area, but no other major incidents were reported.
State Patrol has confirmed they are looking into the circumstances leading to Rankin’s decision to veer across the center line. While distracted driving is always a concern, authorities have not suggested that it was a factor in this crash. The possibility of mechanical failure or an unnoticed obstruction in the road has not been ruled out.
This tragedy marks another sorrowful reminder of the dangers of the open road. As the investigation continues, both the families affected and the broader community are left to grieve, processing a life cut short far too soon.
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