By Crash News Writer 
Yakima, WA (November 11, 2026) – A 67-year-old woman was killed and her husband was critically injured Sunday afternoon, November 8, following a head-on collision involving a pickup truck and an SUV on Coolidge Road in Yakima. According to the Yakima Police Department, the accident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. when a pickup truck traveling on the wrong side of the road struck the couple’s vehicle.
Authorities identified the deceased woman as Susan Edler, 67, and her injured husband as David Edler, 70. David Edler is a former Seattle Mariners baseball player and former mayor of Yakima who remained hospitalized in critical condition following the collision.
The crash occurred near the 7600 block of Coolidge Road. Police identified the pickup driver as Trevor Stockton, 26, who investigators allege was driving under the influence when his Dodge Ram collided head-on with the Edlers’ Ford Bronco.
According to police reports, Stockton was traveling at a high rate of speed on the wrong side of the roadway immediately before the collision. The front of the Dodge Ram rode over the front of the Ford Bronco and intruded into the SUV’s windshield area.
Emergency responders extricated both David and Susan Edler from their damaged vehicle. Susan Edler died at the scene from her injuries, while David Edler was transported for medical treatment.
David Edler remained in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center as of the November 10 report. Authorities have not released additional information about his specific injuries or prognosis.
Yakima police arrested Stockton at the scene following the collision. He was booked into the Yakima County Jail and subsequently posted $75,000 bail.
According to the report, Stockton faces charges of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault, with allegations involving driving under the influence. The charges remain allegations, and his guilt has not been established.
Investigators reported that witnesses described Stockton as visibly intoxicated following the collision. One investigator stated in police documents that a strong odor of alcohol was noticeable from approximately five feet away during an interview.
A woman at the scene who identified herself as Stockton’s cousin reportedly told investigators that he had been drinking since breakfast. This statement was included in the police investigation and has not been independently established as fact.
Police also obtained video footage from a nearby bar where Stockton allegedly spent approximately four hours before the accident. According to the report, the bartender provided a tab showing nine drinks purchased for Stockton and a companion.
Investigators reported that Stockton left the bar approximately six minutes before the fatal collision. Authorities have not released the results of any chemical testing or confirmed Stockton’s blood alcohol concentration at the time of the crash.
David Edler played third base for the Seattle Mariners from 1980 through 1983 after playing college baseball at Washington State University. A Yakima native, he later served on the Yakima City Council from 2003 to 2006 and as the city’s ceremonial mayor from 2006 to 2010.
The Yakima Police Department continues to investigate the fatal collision. Additional findings may become available as the criminal case proceeds.
What Causes Fatal Head-On Collisions in Washington?
Head-on collisions occur when the front ends of two vehicles strike each other, often after one vehicle crosses into an opposing lane. These accidents can result in severe injuries because both vehicles may be moving toward each other at the time of impact.
Potential contributing factors include impaired driving, distracted driving, excessive speed, unsafe passing, and failure to remain within the proper travel lane. Roadway conditions and driver fatigue may also contribute to certain collisions.
Wrong-way driving can create particularly dangerous circumstances when an approaching motorist has limited time to recognize the threat and react. The available distance between the vehicles may be insufficient to avoid a collision.
The severity of a head-on crash depends on vehicle speed, the types of vehicles involved, impact location, and other circumstances. Larger vehicles may also cause substantial damage when their front structures intrude into the passenger compartments of smaller vehicles.
Investigators must examine physical evidence, witness accounts, and other available information before determining the cause of a collision. Allegations of impaired driving must also be evaluated through the applicable investigative and legal processes.
In the November 8 Yakima accident, police allege that Stockton was driving under the influence and traveling at a high rate of speed on the wrong side of Coolidge Road. The criminal allegations remain subject to further proceedings.
What Does Washington Law Say About Driving Under the Influence?
Washington law prohibits operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or other intoxicating substances. Under RCW 46.61.502, a driver may violate the law based on qualifying chemical test results or evidence of impairment.
For most adult drivers, Washington’s statutory alcohol concentration threshold is 0.08, although a person may be charged with DUI even when a test result is below that level if the evidence establishes impairment under the law.
Alcohol can affect judgment, reaction time, coordination, and the ability to recognize hazards. These effects may increase the risk of unsafe lane movements, delayed braking, and other dangerous driving behavior.
When an impaired-driving collision causes serious injuries or death, additional criminal charges may apply depending on the evidence. Prosecutors must establish the required elements of each offense.
In the Yakima collision, police allege that Stockton was intoxicated when his pickup truck struck the Edlers’ SUV. Authorities have not publicly released a blood alcohol concentration result in the provided report.
Why Are Wrong-Way Head-On Collisions So Dangerous?
Wrong-way collisions can be particularly severe because the vehicles may be traveling toward each other, creating substantial impact forces. Occupants can experience rapid deceleration and significant intrusion into the passenger compartment.
Drivers may have very little time to react when another vehicle suddenly appears in their lane. Avoiding the collision can become difficult when surrounding traffic, roadway edges, or other obstacles limit available escape routes.
Potential injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, fractures, internal bleeding, and damage to the chest or abdomen. The severity depends on the collision dynamics and the protection provided by the vehicles.
Investigators may examine roadway markings, vehicle positions, and damage patterns to determine which vehicle crossed into the opposing lane. Witness accounts and video footage may provide additional information.
In the November 8 Yakima accident, police reported that Stockton’s Dodge Ram was traveling on the wrong side of Coolidge Road before striking the Ford Bronco. The pickup’s front end intruded into the SUV’s windshield area.
How Can Excessive Speed Affect a Head-On Collision?
Speed can influence both the likelihood of a collision and the severity of resulting injuries. A vehicle traveling faster generally requires more distance to stop and gives its driver less time to respond to unexpected hazards.
Higher speeds can also increase the forces involved when two vehicles collide. Occupants may experience more severe injuries when the vehicle’s structure cannot adequately manage the impact.
Investigators may examine roadway evidence, vehicle damage, and available electronic data to estimate speed before a collision. Witness statements may also provide information, although estimates must be evaluated alongside other evidence.
A finding that a vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed does not necessarily establish its exact speed. Investigators may need additional evidence to determine whether the driver exceeded the posted limit.
In the Yakima collision, police reported that Stockton was traveling at a high rate of speed before the impact. The provided report does not identify an exact speed or establish whether a formal reconstruction has been completed.
What Is Vehicular Homicide Under Washington Law?
Washington’s vehicular homicide law, RCW 46.61.520, addresses deaths proximately caused by certain forms of unlawful or dangerous vehicle operation. The statute includes circumstances involving driving under the influence, reckless driving, or driving with disregard for the safety of others.
The specific elements prosecutors must prove depend on the legal theory charged. A vehicular homicide conviction requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt of the applicable elements.
Vehicular homicide is a serious felony offense in Washington, and the potential penalties depend on the charged circumstances and other sentencing factors. A DUI-related vehicular homicide offense carries particularly serious consequences.
An arrest or criminal charge does not establish guilt. The accused person retains the presumption of innocence unless and until the prosecution proves the charge in court.
In the November 8 Yakima accident, Stockton was arrested and reportedly faces vehicular homicide and vehicular assault charges. The criminal case remains subject to the judicial process.
What Is Vehicular Assault in Washington?
Washington law defines vehicular assault under RCW 46.61.522. The offense generally involves causing substantial bodily harm to another person through qualifying conduct involving a motor vehicle.
The statute addresses circumstances including reckless driving, driving under the influence, and driving with disregard for the safety of others. The applicable elements depend on the circumstances charged.
Substantial bodily harm has a specific legal meaning and requires more than a minor injury. Medical evidence may be important in determining whether the statutory injury threshold has been satisfied.
Vehicular assault charges are separate from potential civil claims for personal injuries. Criminal proceedings focus on whether the accused committed the charged offense, while civil claims address legal responsibility and damages.
In the Yakima accident, David Edler sustained critical injuries and remained hospitalized at Harborview Medical Center. Stockton reportedly faces a vehicular assault charge, but the allegations have not been resolved in court.
Can Families File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal DUI Accident?
Washington law allows qualifying wrongful death claims when another party’s wrongful act, neglect, or default causes a person’s death. These claims are generally governed by RCW 4.20.010 and related provisions.
A wrongful death action is brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate for the benefit of eligible beneficiaries. The applicable beneficiary rules and recoverable damages depend on Washington law.
Potential damages may include qualifying financial losses, loss of companionship, and other damages recognized under the statute. The amount available depends on the evidence and circumstances.
A criminal conviction is not necessarily required to pursue a civil wrongful death claim. Civil and criminal proceedings involve different standards of proof and may proceed separately.
In the November 8 Yakima collision, Susan Edler died after the Ford Bronco was struck by the Dodge Ram. Any potential wrongful death claim would depend on the evidence establishing legal responsibility.
Can an Injured Passenger Recover Compensation After a Head-On Crash?
A person seriously injured in a head-on collision may have grounds to pursue compensation when another party’s negligence causes the injuries. Potential damages may include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Washington generally follows a pure comparative fault system under RCW 4.22.005. A claimant’s damages may be reduced according to the percentage of fault attributed to that person, but partial fault does not automatically prevent recovery.
Passengers and other occupants may have different liability considerations depending on their actions and the circumstances. The fact that a person was riding in a vehicle does not automatically establish responsibility for a driver’s conduct.
Medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other evidence may help establish the extent of injuries and the cause of the collision. Long-term treatment needs may also become relevant when evaluating damages.
In the Yakima collision, David Edler remained in critical condition after the head-on impact. Any potential personal injury claim would depend on the available evidence and applicable Washington law.
Can a Bar Be Held Responsible for Serving Alcohol Before a Fatal Crash?
Washington law recognizes certain circumstances in which a business that serves alcohol may face civil liability for injuries caused by an intoxicated patron. The applicable requirements depend on the facts and the legal basis for the claim.
Under RCW 66.44.200, selling alcohol to an apparently intoxicated person is prohibited. Whether a violation supports a civil claim depends on additional legal requirements, including the evidence of apparent intoxication and causation.
A bar is not automatically liable simply because a customer consumed alcohol there before a collision. Evidence must establish the required connection between the business’s conduct and the resulting harm.
Investigators may examine receipts, surveillance footage, witness statements, and employee observations when evaluating alcohol service. These records may help establish what occurred before a patron left the establishment.
In the Yakima investigation, police reportedly obtained video footage and a tab from a bar where Stockton allegedly spent several hours. The report does not establish that the bar violated the law or that its employees served an apparently intoxicated customer.
What Evidence Is Important After a Suspected DUI Collision?
Evidence can help investigators determine whether impairment contributed to a collision and how the vehicles came into contact. Police may examine roadway markings, vehicle damage, debris, and final vehicle positions.
Witness statements may provide information about driving behavior before the crash. Available surveillance footage and business records may also help establish a driver’s activities before entering the roadway.
Chemical testing, when lawfully obtained and available, may provide evidence of alcohol or drug use. Investigators may also consider observations of the driver’s behavior and physical condition.
Vehicle inspections and electronic data may help establish speed, braking, and other activity before the impact. Medical records and medical examiner findings may help document injuries and the cause of death.
In the November 8 Yakima collision, investigators reportedly obtained witness statements, video footage, and bar records. Authorities have not released the results of chemical testing in the provided report.
How Long Do Families Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Washington?
Washington generally provides three years to file wrongful death lawsuits under RCW 4.16.080, subject to applicable exceptions and legal requirements. The filing period ordinarily begins when the wrongful death claim accrues.
Personal injury lawsuits are also generally subject to a three-year limitation period. Different requirements may apply depending on the nature of the claim and the parties involved.
Claims against government entities may involve additional notice and procedural requirements. Insurance policies may also establish reporting deadlines that differ from court filing periods.
Families and injured individuals may need to preserve accident reports, medical records, insurance communications, and other evidence while evaluating their options. The applicable deadline depends on the circumstances and legal basis for the claim.
In the November 8 Yakima collision, Susan Edler died and David Edler sustained critical injuries. Any potential civil claims would depend on the evidence and applicable Washington law.
Yakima Police Continue Investigating Fatal Coolidge Road Collision
The Yakima Police Department continues to investigate the November 8 head-on collision near the 7600 block of Coolidge Road. The crash occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. and involved a Dodge Ram pickup truck and a Ford Bronco SUV.
Authorities identified the deceased victim as Susan Edler, 67. Her husband, David Edler, 70, remained in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center following the accident.
Police arrested Trevor Stockton, 26, at the scene and booked him into Yakima County Jail. He subsequently posted $75,000 bail and reportedly faces charges of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault involving allegations of impaired driving.
Investigators allege that Stockton was traveling at a high rate of speed on the wrong side of the roadway before striking the Edlers’ vehicle. Police also reportedly obtained witness statements, surveillance footage, and bar records as part of the investigation.
Families affected by fatal impaired-driving accidents may have questions about insurance coverage, medical expenses, financial losses, and their legal rights. A Washington car accident attorney can review the available evidence, explain the state’s negligence and wrongful death laws, and help injured individuals and surviving family members understand whether a civil claim may be available.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This report is based on information released by the Yakima Police Department, court-related records described in local news coverage, and reporting concerning the November 8 head-on collision on Coolidge Road. Criminal charges remain allegations, and the accused person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
- Victim identification: Authorities identified the deceased woman as Susan Edler, 67, and her critically injured husband as David Edler, 70. David Edler is a former Seattle Mariners player and former Yakima mayor who remained hospitalized at Harborview Medical Center.
- Crash circumstances: Police allege that Trevor Stockton, 26, was driving at a high rate of speed on the wrong side of Coolidge Road when his Dodge Ram struck the Edlers’ Ford Bronco. The pickup’s front end intruded into the SUV’s windshield area.
- Criminal proceedings: Stockton was arrested at the scene, booked into Yakima County Jail, and subsequently posted $75,000 bail. He reportedly faces vehicular homicide and vehicular assault charges, but the allegations have not been resolved in court.
- Investigation findings: Police reportedly obtained witness statements, surveillance footage, and bar records concerning Stockton’s activities before the collision. The provided report does not include chemical test results or a final determination of criminal responsibility.
Readers seeking additional information about traffic accidents and legal rights can review Washington car accident laws and frequently asked questions about Washington traffic accidents. Those considering legal action can also seek information about Washington personal injury and wrongful death claims.
This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal or medical advice. The information reflects publicly available reports at the time of publication and may change as the investigation and criminal proceedings continue. Anyone affected by a similar accident should consider seeking guidance based on their individual circumstances. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this article.