Crash closes Highway 2 for hours

Sun., Dec. 21, 2008

Thomas Clouse Staff writer

Four people were injured Saturday in a crash that forced officials to close U.S. Highway 2 for more than two hours.

According to the Washington State Patrol, the cause of the crash was excessive speed and alcohol consumption. The crash occurred at 2:05 p.m. at U.S. Highway 2 and Farwell Road. Brian H. Cole, 55, of Mead was northbound in his 1995 Nissan pickup when he lost control, slid across the centerline and hit another pickup head-on.

That 1997 Ford pickup was driven by Brianne N. Ueland, 19, of Mead. Ueland and passengers Teresa H. Ueland, 46, and Krystina R. O’Brien, 13, suffered minor injuries and were transported to Holy Family Hospital by private vehicle. Cole, who might face vehicular assault charges, was transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center by helicopter, according to the WSP. Traffic was diverted until 4:30 p.m.

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