Washington State Patrol Investigating Fatal Collision Between Pedestrian and Pickup

The Washington State Patrol is investigating the third vehicle-vs-pedestrian fatality in Okanogan County this winter Friday night.

41-year-old Joseph A Stanger was traveling northbound on Highway 97 just before 10:00 pm when he struck 48-year-old Chad M. Vaughn. Vaughn was taken to Mid-Valley hospital where he died.

Trooper John Bryant says that three pedestrian fatalities in a season is unusual.

"To have three in that small area is unusual for that to happen." said Bryant, "For the pedestrian to walk in the roadway under the influence or not. You can be under the influence and walk, that is not a problem, but walking in the roadway is an issue."

Bryant wants the public to know that the state patrol is there to help.

"If you have a problem and you are on the side of the road, and you need help, we help those in need. People who are broken down, cars on the side of the road, changing tires or getting towed, we are there to help," continued Bryant.

It is unknown if alcohol or drugs were involved.

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