Drowsy Driving Suspected Cause of SR 28 Wreck

A 22-year-old Othello man escaped serious injury after tipping his box truck on State Route 28 in Douglas County just before 2:00 pm Tuesday.

Washington State Patrol Trooper John Bryant said Jose Portillo was driving the box truck eastbound near Spanish Castle when he drifted to the right and left the road, continuing along a dirt ditch. He then struck an embankment and tipped over, coming to rest on the truck's passenger side 20 feet from the road.

"He received minor injuries and was not transported (to the hospital)." explained Bryant, "However, he was cited for Negligent Driving 2nd Degree, which carries a $553 fine."

'Drowsy driving' is believed to be a factor in the accident.