Car Accident Pullman Rosalia, WA – A tragic multi-vehicle collision on an icy stretch of State Route 195 claimed the life of a 13-year-old Pullman boy Saturday morning, according to the Washington State Patrol (WSP). The crash, which involved five vehicles, occurred around 7:20 a.m., approximately three miles north of Rosalia. The incident began when a southbound semi-truck jackknifed near Babb Road after losing control on the icy roadway. The truck’s trailer swung into the northbound lanes, blocking traffic and triggering a chain reaction.
Among the vehicles involved was a northbound Mazda CX-50, driven by 44-year-old Stephen Bischoff of Pullman. The Mazda collided with the semi-trailer in the left northbound lane, then was pushed into the right lane, where it struck two additional vehicles. The semi’s trailer also collided with a parked truck, propelling it into a nearby rock wall. Emergency responders pronounced the 13-year-old passenger in the Mazda dead at the scene. Bischoff sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The conditions of the other drivers and passengers involved have not been fully disclosed, though WSP indicated no additional fatalities occurred.
Investigators believe icy road conditions played a significant role in the crash. WSP troopers are urging drivers to exercise caution as freezing temperatures continue to create hazardous driving conditions in the region. “This tragedy underscores the importance of slowing down and maintaining extra distance between vehicles when driving on icy roads,” a WSP spokesperson said. The name of the young victim has not been released, pending notification of extended family.
The Pullman community has expressed its grief over the loss, with condolences pouring in for the family. State Route 195 was closed for several hours following the crash as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the scene. Traffic has since resumed, but officials warn that similar conditions could persist as winter weather continues. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident to determine whether additional factors contributed to the crash.
